Keep a look-out for Goldeneyes in January

We are asking members of the public to keep their eyes open for an occasional visitor to Petersfield pond at about this time of year – the Goldeneye.

January is the peak month for spotting these attractive small ducks across the region. The birds move about in small groups of mixed sexes and they favour large ponds and lakes, gravel-pits and sheltered sea-bays.

The males have striking glossy dark green heads and piercingly yellow eyes. If you are really lucky, you might see the amusing courtship display of the male birds – have a look here.

Goldeneyes were only recorded as having bred in Britain as recently as 1970, but since then the population has expanded. In the UK there are around 200 pairs, the majority being found around Speyside in Scotland.