There was an interesting talk tonight on "An Update on Ruddy Duck erradication in the UK" at Bangor Birdgroup from Iain Henderson of FERA. From a maximum of around 6000 birds in the 1990's the UK population is now down to below 100 birds! There's about 3 males in Northern Ireland, 44 birds in Holland and 200 in France with just 1 wandering male at large in Spain and possibly a few birds in Morrocco. It was 2006/7 when the last White headed / Ruddy Duck Hybrid was shot in Spain. The UK project is on track for total erradication by 2015. Holland is about to start erradication but France seems to be less organised in their methods of population contol. I think the North Wales population is now down to 3 - 5 birds on Llyn Alaw. With a young male and 2 females in Gwredog bay, Llyn Alaw still at least 2 weeks ago, this may be your last chance to see Ruddy Ducks in their wild state in North Wales.
Sorry did not make it last night, was in Yorkshire at RSPB Fairburn Ings yday nice views of EWF Geese and Whooper Swans. Feeders were good with Lesser Redpoll, Siskin, Bullfinch, Reed Bunting and loads of Tree Sparrows great for pics if only we had taken the camera, der! Got back 8.15pm thanks to M62
ReplyDeleteAlan and Ruth