Hi all,
I'm quite unfamiliar with British birds and during my first trip to
Europe last month I had the opportunity to do some birding at St.
James's Park. Some waterfowl species were obviously non-native and
kept for ornamental purposes (Ruddy Shelduck, whistling-ducks,
pelicans, etc.) It was unclear though, whether the Common Eider were
free-flying birds. I saw at least 4 or 5 individuals, including a male
eclipse, female, and juvenile. It was odd to see them on a small
inland lake but I can't imagine how they could be kept there
year-round. The species I took to be "wild" were Canada Goose,
Pochard, Shelduck, Mallard, Tufted Duck, Greylag Goose, and Mute Swan.
Am I correct in those assumptions? Thanks in advance for any
information.

David