Common Merganser
NameCommon Merganser
Common NameCommon Merganser
Scientific NameMergus merganser
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)87.5
Length (cm)65
Weight (g)1500
Plumage DetailsMales have an iridescent dark green head, white breast and flanks often with a salmon-pink wash, and a black back. Females have a reddish-brown head with a shaggy crest, a distinct white chin and throat patch, and a grey body with white underparts. Both sexes have a long, slender red bill with a hooked tip and serrated edges.
Vocalization / CallGenerally quiet, but can produce a variety of low croaks, grunts, and trills, especially during courtship. Females may give a harsh, rattling 'karr-karr-karr' call.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatsrivers, lakes, ponds, coastal waters
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across northern North America, Europe, and Asia, migrating south to more temperate regions for winter. Found throughout the Northern Hemisphere.
Identifying Featureslong, serrated red bill, shaggy crest (females), iridescent green head (males), white breast (males), grey body with white throat (females), diving behavior
Description
A large diving duck found in freshwater habitats across the Northern Hemisphere. Males are striking with a dark green head and white body, while females have a reddish-brown head with a shaggy crest and a grey body. They are adept at catching fish with their specialized serrated bills.
