Essex scientists are looking to solve the declining duck mystery and are asking residents for their help. 

Biologists at the Essex University's Colchester campus are exploring why ducks numbers are declining in England. 

Under the hashtag “#Essexducks” the researchers are looking for schoolchildren, families, bird watchers, walkers, farmers and landowners who can take a photo of a mallard duckling brood in the wild when they spot it. 

According to Essex University, the country’s winter population has dropped by an estimated 36 per cent since 1995. 

Family - A family of mallard ducksFamily - A family of mallard ducks (Image: University of Essex)

Research leader and PhD student Hannah Coburn hopes the public can build a large database across Essex, England and the UK. 

She said: “Despite being a common bird, there is still a surprising amount that we don't know about mallards, how productive they are, how many of their ducklings survive or even what their preferred habitats are during summer. 

“Information about the number and ages of ducklings, and of older duckling broods in particular is key to understanding how Mallards are faring in contemporary Britain. 

“We very much welcome anyone in Essex to get involved, but records from across the United Kingdom are as important. 

“People of any age or expertise can get involved to help us build up a picture of what's happening with ducks in Essex, southeast England or indeed UK wide. 

“Citizen science projects such as this are hugely valuable in the research and conservation of our wildlife.” 

Volunteers ca head to beauty spots, wetlands and city centre ponds and parks to look for the birds. 

Nest and brood surveys will take place at Abberton Reservoir and female mallards’ movements in the breeding season will also be closely monitored. 

Prof Tom Cameron at the School of Life is supporting Miss Coburns efforts. 

He said: “We welcome observations from anyone from anywhere in the UK in this work. 

“The productivity of many of our common birds, especially those that nest on the ground, are changing rapidly and we are very keen to find out how Mallard are doing. 

“So whether it’s from an urban park, remote river or a mallard brood in a coastal borrow dyke or walking across a wheat field – we want to hear from everyone.” 

To take part, people can email ducks@essex.ac.uk to report size, age and location of broods, and sent pictures to help identify their age.