Hi
This lunchtime I saw something on the beautiful Lune... ...a medium sized pair of ducks...Pochard size and general appearance with brown head and grey body...but with a white throat/breast and orange beek and legs/feet....any ideas please?
Thanks
Mozza
I suppose they could have been Red Crested Pochard with the red/orange beaks,but wether they are wild birds or escapees may be in question.
Pete
Birding is for everyone no matter how good or bad we are at it,enjoy it while you can
I wonder whether they could have been Goosanders. I know that Sparrow, a forum member, has seen them on the River Ribble in Lancs. Males and females look similar at this time of year. You could have a look at some images here.
____________________________________________________________________
Tony
My Flickr Photostream
I would hazzard a guess at Goosanders. Did you notice if they were diving down and under for their food? The ones you describe would be females if they are goosanders.
You are so right - the River Lune is beautiful. We visit Kirby Lonsdale a lot, and only last week were up on the estuary. I didn't see goosanders, but TJ is right, we do see them frequently on the River Ribble.
Cheers, Linda.
See my photos on Flickr
Many thanks for the reply Seaman...a good suggestion but I saw a picture of that bird and theres no white throat/breast...I'll see if they are still there today and try and get a picture.
Cheers
Good thought TJ...I have seen goosanders on the river recently and this fella was different...I'll try and get a picture over the next few days if they are around.
Hi Linda
Thanks for the reply...I have seen Goosanders on the Lune earlier this year...yes...they were diving (as apposed to tipping like Mallards)...glad you like Kirkby...I just mooved there 6 months ago and its wonderful.//Im going to rty and get a photo to post...
Goosander or Red Breasted Merganser are a good bet ,juv.and female of both have reddish heads