Common Merganser
NameCommon Merganser
Common NameCommon Merganser
Scientific NameMergus merganser
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)87.5
Length (cm)65
Weight (g)1500
Plumage DetailsMales have a dark iridescent green head, a white breast and flanks, and a black back. Females and immatures have a rusty-brown, shaggy crest, a distinct white chin patch, and a gray body with a white belly. Both sexes possess a slender, bright red bill with serrated edges.
Vocalization / CallGenerally quiet, Common Mergansers produce a variety of low croaks, grunts, and rattling calls, particularly during courtship. Females may emit a harsh 'karr-karr-karr' when alarmed.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatslakes, rivers, estuaries, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across northern North America, Europe, and Asia, typically in forested areas near freshwater. Winters further south in more temperate regions of these continents.
Identifying Featureslarge size, slender, serrated red bill, crested head (especially females), diving behavior, distinct plumage (males: green head, white body; females: rusty head, gray body)
Description
The Common Merganser is a large diving duck known for its slender, serrated bill adapted for catching fish. Males are striking with a dark green head and white body, while females and immatures have a distinctive rusty-brown crested head and gray body. They are expert swimmers and divers, often seen on large freshwater bodies.
