Goosander Welfare: Diving Ducks and Fisheries Conflict

Goosanders are spectacular fish-eating ducks that face persecution from fishing interests despite legal protection. Balancing conservation with fisheries welfare is a complex challenge.

Key Facts

Goosanders are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
Licences are issued annually to allow shooting of goosanders near salmon rivers
The scientific evidence that goosanders significantly reduce salmon populations remains contested
Goosanders are colonial nesters, using tree holes or nest boxes near rivers
Females are reddish-brown ('sawbills') while males have distinctive dark green iridescent heads
Chick mortality is high in rivers with intensive recreational fishing pressure

Welfare Considerations

Goosanders face a significant welfare threat from persecution - both legal under licence and illegal. Licensed shooting aims to protect salmon fisheries but the welfare cost to goosanders is real and significant. Illegally killed birds found poisoned or shot near rivers represent a persistent welfare concern. Conservation efforts focused on providing nest boxes and reducing illegal persecution have supported population recovery, but conflict with fishing interests continues to place welfare at risk.

What You Can Do

Support the RSPB in monitoring and reducing illegal persecution of goosanders
Advocate for robust evidence requirements before shooting licences are granted
Install goosander nest boxes near suitable rivers where fishing pressure is low
Report suspected illegal persecution of goosanders to the police wildlife crime unit
Support integrated catchment management that benefits both fish and birds