Birdwatchers got a rare sighting of a dopping of Goosanders in Christchurch Park on January 17.

East Anglian Daily Times: A pair of male and female Gooseanders have been spotted in Christchurch Park in Ipswich.A pair of male and female Gooseanders have been spotted in Christchurch Park in Ipswich.

Two male and two female goosanders, which are a member of the sawbill family, have been spotted in the park – with two having also been sighted there before Christmas.

Chris Courtney, leader of the RSPB Ipswich group, said: “You find them in upland rivers in northern Britain in the summer, that’s where they breed.

“In the winter they disperse and go further afield looking for food.

“They are winter visitors to Suffolk.”

East Anglian Daily Times: Chris Courtney, of RSPB Ipswich groupChris Courtney, of RSPB Ipswich group

Mr Courtney said that it was rare for the birds to visit Christchurch Park, with him only having seen one female two years ago, and two in the park before Christmas.

In recent years they have also been sighted in Lackford Lakes, in Bury St Edmunds, and Alton Water’s conservation area.

“They are a scarce migrant,” he said. “They are certainly of local interest.

“Bird watchers in Suffolk will certainly want to make a trip to see them.”

Did you get any photographs of the goosanders? Email them to newsroom@archant.co.uk