AN odd mix of new arrivals is adding to the variety of species at a nature reserve.

The Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust recently revamped its reserve in Washington, on Wearside, and has introduced several exotic birds to add to its collection of endangered captive species.

They include six young magpie geese, which are being housed in the site's waterfowl nursery.

Originating from the wet grasslands of northern Australia, they are said to have a long history and are believed to have existed before the extinction of the dinosaurs.

Equally as eyecatching are six bright orange ruddy shelducks, which are considered sacred by Buddhists in Tibet and Mongolia.

These can be found in the centre's Close Encounters feeding area.

A pair of black swans, which have already been dubbed Napoleon and Josephine, have been joined by a Laysan teal, a rare duck which is on the endangered list.

The species, which is indigenous to Laysan island about 150 miles from the Hawaiian Islands, is thought to number no more than 500 in the wild.

Trust researchers have been involved in an international project to try to save the creatures.

The other arrivals at Washington are four Patagonian crested ducks, 15 West Indian whistling ducks, several Mandarin and Carolina ducks, three types of geese and a pair of Bewick swans, named Bebop and Lula.

Rebecca Jones, the centre's animal manager, said: "We're delighted to be able to receive these latest additions.

"Some of these species need our help and, hopefully, we can give it to them by breeding them here at Washington.

"These birds have some great stories behind them, and they will help to educate visitors about the need for conservation worldwide. They look pretty good, too."

Staff at the centre have spent a year giving the 31-year-old site a facelift, with an official relaunch expected in spring.