Gadwall
Mareca strepera
Tap image to enlarge · Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Gadwall is one of Marshside RSPB's success stories — it colonised as a breeding species following habitat management and is now a regular breeder. The drake Gadwall is subtly beautiful: intricately patterned grey-brown with a black stern and a small white wing patch visible at rest and in flight. Far less obvious than a Mallard but worth a close look. The RSPB management plan specifically mentions Gadwall colonisation as an outcome of conservation work.
At a Glance
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Habitat | Coastal lagoon · Freshwater marsh · Wetland |
| Diet | Aquatic vegetation, algae, aquatic invertebrates |
| UK population | Around 1,200 breeding pairs; winter population around 25,000 |
| Sefton Coast | Breeds at Marshside RSPB — a conservation success story; regular throughout winter |
| Conservation | UK Amber List |
Where to See It
Marshside RSPB lagoons. The scrape and main pools are reliable. Occasionally on dune slack ponds.
Identification
Drake: grey-brown body with intricate fine patterning, black rear end, small white wing patch. Duck: mottled brown, similar to Mallard but slimmer with orange sides to bill. White wing patch visible in flight.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Scan Marshside lagoons carefully — Gadwall are often mixed in with Mallards and Teal and can be overlooked. The black stern on the drake and white wing patch are the key features.
Conservation Status
UK Amber List
This species is on the UK Amber List for Birds (BoCC5), indicating moderate concern. Population monitoring and habitat management remain important for its continued recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gadwall a rare duck?
Gadwall is uncommon as a breeding bird in northwest England, making the breeding population at Marshside RSPB significant. As a winter visitor it's more frequent — the UK hosts around 25,000 wintering birds. Its quiet, understated plumage means it's often overlooked in mixed duck flocks, so it's worth checking carefully.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.