Goldeneye
Bucephala clangula
Overview
The Goldeneye is a striking sea duck — the drake has an iridescent bottle-green head with a circular white patch, and the distinctive golden eye. They dive in deep water and are more likely to be seen offshore from the beach than on the Marshside lagoons, though they do occasionally appear. The head-throwing courtship display of drakes in winter is worth watching. Breeds in Scottish forests (nesting in tree holes) and winters on coasts.
At a Glance
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Habitat | Offshore sea · Deep coastal water · Freshwater lake |
| Diet | Crustaceans, molluscs, aquatic invertebrates — dives in deep water |
| UK population | Around 200 breeding pairs in Scotland; winter population around 13,000 |
| Sefton Coast | Regular but small numbers offshore and occasionally on lagoons; typically 1–10 birds |
| Conservation | UK Amber List |
Where to See It
Offshore from Formby and Ainsdale beaches. Occasionally on Marshside lagoons. Favours deeper water.
Identification
Drake: large round black-and-white head with iridescent green gloss and white circular cheek spot. Striking yellow eye. Duck: grey-brown with chocolate-brown head and yellow-orange eye. White wing patch visible in flight.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Scan offshore from Formby or Ainsdale on calm winter days. Goldeneye dive frequently and are best found by scanning methodically with a telescope.
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
Do Goldeneye breed in Britain?
Yes, but only in Scotland. Around 200 pairs breed in Highland woods, nesting in tree holes (often nest boxes provided by conservationists). Birds wintering on the Sefton Coast are a mix of UK breeders and visitors from Scandinavia and northern Russia.
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.