Long-tailed Duck at Stocks Reservoir, Lancashire

October 31, 2011:
The bird was first sighted the previous day towards the eastern end of the reservoir but was always distant allowing only record shots..

In the rough weather it was often hidden  by the waves and was difficult to pick out amongst the large number of other wildfowl present which included Mallard,Tufted Duck and Pintail. Later, it detached itself and could be seen distantly diving alone for a while in the rough water. It appeared to be an adult female rather than an immature bird.