The 2 “Goldeneye” we’re most likely the hybrids that are resident here ,presumably the offspring of one of The Male Hooded Merganser’s that frequent the reservoir, mating with who knows what ? !!

A short stop this lunchtime at Hawkridge reservoir produced 2 goldeneye with another diving duck that I wasn’t familiar with.  Having returned home and checked my guides it was a male hooded merganser.  The large white cheeks, black back and pinky brown sides made identification clear.  Easily visible from the roadside parking spaces.  That is 2 rarities/escapees this week for me.