Common Merganser
Common Merganser Overview
The common merganser is a large duck that eats fish and nests in holes in trees. Males are slightly larger then females and when in breeding season can be easily distinguished from females by their white body with a salmon-pink tinge, black head with a green gloss, grey rump and tail, and white wings on the inner half and black on the outer half. Females and males in non-breeding season are mainly grey with a reddish-brown head, white chin and white feathers on their wings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Common Merganser look like?
Breeding males have a white body with a pinkish tinge, dark green head, and black-and-white wings. Females and non-breeding males are mostly gray with reddish-brown heads and white chins.
What do Common Mergansers eat?
They primarily eat fish, which they catch by diving underwater. Their narrow, serrated bills help grip slippery prey.
Where do Common Mergansers nest?
They usually nest in cavities in trees near freshwater lakes and rivers, often using natural holes or abandoned woodpecker nests.
Are Common Mergansers found in Hawaii?
They are not native to Hawaii, but rare sightings may occur during migration. Their typical range includes North America, Europe, and Asia.
Are Common Mergansers migratory?
Yes. They breed in northern forests and migrate southward in winter to ice-free rivers and coastal waters.