Red-breasted Merganser
Mergus serrator
The Red-breasted Merganser is a striking duck species that can be seen in Britain, particularly during the winter months, when it migrates to coastal areas, although it is not as common as some other duck species. It can be spotted on estuaries, coastal bays, and sometimes on inland lakes and rivers.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Red-breasted Merganser in the field.
The Red-breasted Merganser can be identified by its distinctive red breast, long, serrated bill, and sleek, streamlined body, with a greenish-black head and white patches on its wings.
The Red-breasted Merganser is slightly larger than a Woodpigeon, with a more slender build.
The male Red-breasted Merganser has a bright red breast, a greenish-black head, and a black and white body, with a distinctive white wing patch, and this striking plumage is only displayed during the breeding season.
The female Red-breasted Merganser has a more subdued plumage, with a reddish-brown breast, a greyish-brown head, and a grey and white body, lacking the bright red breast of the male.
The Red-breasted Merganser has a loud, shrill call, often described as a sharp "krek-krek-krek" or a high-pitched whistle.
The Red-breasted Merganser is a fast and agile flyer, and it feeds by diving from the surface of the water to pursue fish and other aquatic animals, using its serrated bill to catch slippery prey.
The Red-breasted Merganser can be confused with the Goosander, but it can be distinguished by its smaller size, more slender build, and the male's bright red breast, as well as its distinctive serrated bill and wing patches.
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