Urged: Anglers Join the Hunt for Declining Mallard Duck Numbers

We have all heard the chuckle-like quack of a mallard, which seems to mock us as we struggle to catch even one fish. Perhaps you have also appreciated watching a group of ducklings gliding past your fishing spot. These birds actually serve an important role in maintaining ecological balance within our rivers and lakes. However, sadly, the number of mallards appears to be decreasing, though experts cannot pinpoint why this is happening.

The University of Essex has initiated a citizen science project to explore the mysterious decline in mallard numbers, finding that the UK’s wintering mallard population has decreased by approximately 18%, while their breeding figures have dropped by about 8% since 2012.

Hannah Coburn, a PhD student heading up the campaign, shared these thoughts:

Examining the survival rate of ducklings to maturity will provide greater insight into what influences variations in our mallard populations, similar to findings observed globally. We seek assistance from the public to gather information about mallard family groups throughout the nation.

Why should anglers care?

You may wonder, "Ducks? Don't they simply cause trouble, frolicking about and taking bait?" However, take into account that mallards are vital for sustaining healthy aquatic environments. A decrease in their numbers might indicate larger ecological problems impacting rivers and fishing grounds, ultimately affecting both fish stocks and water purity—concerns all anglers ought to keep an eye on.

How can you help?

The University of Essex is appealing to fishermen to help with this crucial research. Here’s how you can participate:

Spot a mallard brood Keep watch for mallard family groups when you're out fishing. Make sure to observe and record how many ducklings there are, estimate their age if you can, and jot down where they were spotted.

Capture a snapshot A photograph serves as irreplaceable information. Take a shot of the group to assist researchers in evaluating their age and well-being.

Report your findings Upload your pictures and share your observations on the duckling watch website Don't overlook including specifics such as the count of ducklings, their approximate age, and where they were spotted.

Laugh-out-loud, it’s for a worthy cause.

Although your primary focus might be fishing rather than waterfowl, anglers frequently act as stewards who notice changes in the underwater ecosystem first. Through your involvement, you assist researchers in painting a complete picture of mallard numbers throughout the UK. The information you provide could fill crucial gaps in explaining why these ducks are declining and how we can support their recovery.

Next time you're at the pond, watch out for a group of baby mallards. You could very well be part of an effort that aids in protecting these delightful birds for coming generations of fishermen and wildlife enthusiasts.

FOR ADDITIONAL DETAILS OR TO PARTICIPATE, PLEASE VISIT THE DUCKLING WATCH WEBSITE .