Common Merganser
Image: Mika Tomta (cc-by-nc)
NameCommon Merganser
Common NameCommon Merganser
Scientific NameMergus merganser
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)87.5
Length (cm)65
Weight (g)1500
Plumage DetailsAdult males have a white body, black back, and an iridescent dark green head. Adult females have a gray body, white belly, and a rusty-brown head with a shaggy crest and a distinct white chin patch. Both sexes possess a slender, serrated red bill.
Vocalization / CallGenerally quiet, Common Mergansers produce low croaks, growls, and various display calls, especially during breeding season. Females may give a harsh, rattling 'karr-karr-karr' call.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatsfreshwater lakes, rivers, estuaries, coastal waters
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeA Holarctic species, breeding across northern North America, Europe, and Asia. It winters further south in temperate regions, typically on large unfrozen bodies of water.
Identifying Featuresslender serrated red bill, male's clean white body and dark green head, female's rusty-brown shaggy-crested head with white chin, diving behavior, streamlined body shape
Description
The Common Merganser is a large diving duck found on freshwater lakes and rivers. Males are striking with a clean white body and an iridescent dark green head, while females have a gray body and a distinctive rusty-brown, shaggy-crested head. They are highly adapted for catching fish underwater, using their slender, serrated bills.
