During my short visit to England, I was able to go to St. James's park. I saw many waterfowl but I was aware some were captive but others I wasn't sure of, I assume species such as the common pochard, tufted duck were wild and species like the Chiloe wigeon and pelicans were captive.
The species I am not sure about are Eurasian wigeon, red-crested pochard and green-winged teal, it looked like the wigeon was missing it's flight feathers on wing but I can't tell on the teal, which was ringed. The pochard was seen from a distance. Does anyone have any info?
Both pochard species, the wigeon and teal will have likely been captive as they wouldn't be in such close proximity as wild birds. Wigeon and Common pochard form large flocks as they winter here and it is unlikely the park would provide enough food resources for them. Teal are often a more shy duck and also likely wouldn't be in an urban park. Red-crested pochard aren't a native UK species.
@Prochilodus246 Thanks! Looks like I have to take a few species off my life list, though probably not much I can't find as vagrants besides the pochards.
Yeah the wigeon and tufted duck do occasionally make it to North America. However, if you ever travel to the UK again, depending on the time of year you visit, you will be able to gain plenty of new species with just a visit to a nature reserve. If you want more details of where to go, don't hesitate to ask
