Scaly-sided Merganser
NameScaly-sided Merganser
Common NameScaly-sided Merganser
Scientific NameMergus squamatus
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)78
Length (cm)57
Weight (g)950
Plumage DetailsMales have a glossy dark green head with a shaggy crest, a black back, and a white breast. Their flanks are white with prominent black scaling, giving them their common name. Females have a reddish-brown head with a shaggy crest and a greyish-brown body. Both sexes have a long, thin red bill and orange legs.
Vocalization / CallGenerally quiet, but vocalizations include soft croaks, growls, and whistles, particularly during courtship displays.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatsforest, wetland
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeBreeds in southeastern Siberia, northeastern China, and North Korea, preferring forested rivers. Winters further south in China, Japan, and South Korea, often in coastal estuaries or large rivers.
Identifying FeaturesScaly pattern on flanks (male), Shaggy crest (both sexes), Long, thin red bill, Dark green head (male), Reddish-brown head (female)
Description
The Scaly-sided Merganser is a medium-sized diving duck known for its distinctive plumage, particularly the male's scaly flanks. These birds are agile swimmers and divers, primarily feeding on fish in their freshwater habitats.
