With reference to the starling debate, a similar though much
smaller scale situation exists in western Europe, particularly
southern England, with Ruddy Ducks. Introduced to the UK through the
Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust wildfowl collection, they have become
well established and are rapidly spreading.

The main threat is to the White-headed Duck population in Spain,
for which the Spanish government has provided considerable funds in
protecting. White-headed Duck females "prefer" to mate with Ruddy
Ducks, consequently the "pure" population is under threat. More from
political pressure, UK agencies are considering how best to negate
the threat - extermination being the prime candidate.

As with any pest species this is proving rather difficult. The
birds are almost impossible to catch. The only "practical" solution
so far seems to get marksmen to shoot them - group "therapy" is not
working as the birds are far too wary.

It would be interesting to consider the possibilities with regards
to getting rid of Starlings.

Stuart MacKay