Goosander Nest Box

The goosander is a large fish-eating duck that is common in North Europe but is right on the edge of its range here in Ireland. Low numbers occur within Wicklow, but breeding has been scarce. It was felt by the National Park staff that the absence of suitable nestsites was a factor in their low breeding numbers. Goosanders nest in hollow trees beside rivers or lakes, and hollow trees are always in short supply. So, large wooden nestboxes were supplied at suitable locations. Over the following years breeding success has increased, although the species is still very scarce.

Photo: Ann Fitzpatrick, NPWS

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