Goldeneye Welfare: Winter Visitors from Boreal Forests

Goldeneyes are striking diving ducks that winter on UK lochs and estuaries, with a small but growing breeding population in Scottish forests.

Key Facts

Around 27,000 goldeneyes winter in the UK, mostly from Scandinavian breeding grounds
A small population of around 200 pairs now breeds in Scotland, using nest boxes provided by conservation programmes
Goldeneyes are cavity nesters - they naturally use old Black Woodpecker holes in boreal forests
UK breeding success depends almost entirely on the provision of artificial nest boxes
They dive for invertebrates, crustaceans, and molluscs in clear freshwater and coastal waters
Water clarity is critical - turbid or polluted water prevents successful foraging

Welfare Considerations

Goldeneye welfare in Scotland depends heavily on the provision and maintenance of nest boxes. Without them, the breeding population could not exist in the UK as natural cavities are scarce. Wintering birds face welfare challenges from water pollution and disturbance on key lochs. Clear, unpolluted water is essential for their foraging success. Conservation management that combines nest box provision with water quality protection directly improves welfare across both breeding and wintering populations.

What You Can Do

Support the RSPB Scotland goldeneye nest box scheme
Advocate for water quality protection on key wintering lochs
Donate to conservation work at Scottish lochs hosting breeding goldeneye
Participate in wintering wildfowl surveys through WeBS
Report any nest box theft or vandalism at goldeneye breeding sites