Rare Wildlife Sighting in Thamesmead

Two rare, wildlife sightings were reported in Thamesmead last week.

The first was of a female Ferruginous duck, which was spotted on West Lake in central Thamesmead, which can be best observed from Morrisons car park.

Ferruginous ducks live in marshes and lakes with a metre or more water depth, which makes Thamesmead the perfect habitat!

Conservation Ecologist for the London Wildlife Trust, Tony Wileman MIEEM, said “What makes the sighting, initially made by local birdwatchers Richard Bonser and John Archer, so unique is that the ducks are decreasing in numbers throughout Europe, and only about five sightings of them are ever reported annually in Britain. They usually opt for hotter European and North African climates such as Greece, France, Spain and Turkey.”

The second sighting of a mink at Thamesmere East Lake isn't so positive.

“It is a great concern from an ecological perspective.” said John Paul Taberdo from the London Wildlife Trust. “Mink in the British wildlife can have a devastating impact on European Water Voles - a population of which can be found in the Erith Marshes. Water Voles are an endangered species and are protected in the UK.” Adding, “We are talking to different organisations to agree how to manage the situation.”

Tom Broad, Head of Environmental Services at Gallions Housing Association said: “It gives me great pleasure to hear the positive news about the sighting of a Ferruginous duck.

“We are aware that the presence of mink could have a detrimental effect on the Water Vole population and so will continue to work with all partner organisations to find a suitable solution to the problem.”