Tragically, it appears rather than let something alone to grow and flourish, the approach taken appears to be that of "scorched earth". The Cherry Tree shoots and all of the surrounding plants have been razed to the ground. @nclengineering.bsky.social @newcastleuni.bsky.social #Nature

Ah so they are, thanks. :) I wondered what they were. From the photos on the RSPB website, they look quite similar to the Scaup at a distance. Though very different head colours.

Not the best photo (camera phone), but I think these may have been Scaups. I wasn't sure if they were Cuddy Ducks at first. Spotted in the little lake in Exhibition Park, Newcastle.