Common Merganser Bird Details
Mergus merganser
Common Merganser,Goosander, Shelduck;
Kali Chand
Carl Linnaeus, 1758
Anseriformes (DUCKS)
Anatidae
Mergus
United States, Canada, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia, China, Japan, India (Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand)
Appearance :
The Common Merganser is a large duck. Males have striking green heads, white bodies, and a distinctive red bill, while females are mottled brown with a grayish head and a white throat. Both sexes have a long, slender body and pointed wings.
Behaviour :
Common Mergansers are social birds and often seen in groups, especially during the breeding season and wintering months. They are known for their strong swimming abilities and often dive underwater to catch fish. During the breeding season, they can be territorial.
Habitat :
Common Mergansers prefer freshwater habitats, including lakes, rivers, and large streams with clear waters. They require areas with abundant fish populations and suitable nesting sites, such as tree cavities or rocky crevices.
Diet :
Their diet primarily consists of fish, but they may also consume insects, crustaceans, and small amphibians.
Conservation Status :
Least Concern
Distribution :
Common Mergansers are found in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. They breed in northern regions and migrate south for the winter.
Population Size :
The global population is estimated to be in the millions.
Life Span :
In the wild, Common Mergansers can live up to 10-15 years.
Body And Tarsus:
- Body: The Common Merganser has a long, slender body that is streamlined for efficient swimming and diving.
- Tarsus Length: Approximately 5.6–7.2 cm (2.2–2.8 in).
Head And Bill :
- Head: The male has a striking green head, while the female has a more muted, brownish head with a distinctive white throat patch.
- Eyes: The eyes are relatively small and positioned towards the side of the head, aiding in peripheral vision while swimming.
- Bill: The bill is long, slender, and pointed, adapted for catching fish.
- Bill Length: Approximately 6–8 cm (2.4–3.1 in).
Length :
Common Mergansers measure about 60–70 cm (24–28 in) in length.
Neck :
The neck is long and slender, allowing for flexibility when diving and hunting.
Size :
Males are generally larger than females, with a more vibrant plumage.
Tail Details :
- Tail: The tail is relatively long and pointed, aiding in maneuverability while swimming.
- Tail Length: Approximately 14–16 cm (5.5–6.3 in).
- Feathers: The plumage is waterproof, with a dense layer of down for insulation.
Weight :
Males typically weigh between 1,000–1,300 g (2.2–2.9 lbs), while females weigh around 800–1,100 g (1.8–2.4 lbs).
Wing :
The wings are long and pointed, designed for fast flight and agility in the air.
Wing Span :
Approximately 80–90 cm (31–35 in).
Facial Feature :
Common Mergansers have a long, slender head with a sharp, pointed bill. Males exhibit a bright green head, while females have a more subdued, brownish head with a white throat patch.
Nest Details :
- Nest: Common Mergansers nest in tree cavities, under bushes, or on rocky ledges near water. They prefer secluded locations for nesting to protect their eggs and young.
- Nest Made Up Of: The nest is typically lined with soft materials such as feathers, down, grass, and moss to provide insulation and comfort.
Breeding Season :
The breeding period typically occurs from late April to early July.
Nesting Season :
Nesting often begins in late spring.
Egg Color :
The eggs are usually pale buff or light cream-colored.
Egg Length :
Approximately 5.5–6.2 cm (2.2–2.4 in).
Egg Width and Weight :
- Egg Width: Approximately 4.0–4.3 cm (1.6–1.7 in).
- Egg Weight: Each egg typically weighs about 60–80 g (2.1–2.8 oz).
Clutch Size :
A typical clutch consists of 6 to 12 eggs, but it can vary.
No. of Broods :
Common Mergansers usually raise one brood per breeding season.
Incubation Period :
The incubation period lasts about 28 to 35 days.
Nestling Period :
The nestlings fledge (develop feathers necessary for flight) about 50 to 60 days after hatching.
Vocalization :
Common Mergansers are generally quiet but can produce a range of sounds, including soft whistles, quacks, and low grunts.
Sex Demorphism :
Males have bright green heads and white bodies, while females are mottled brown with a white throat and grayish body, making identification easy.
Migration Details :
- Migration Pattern: Common Mergansers are migratory birds, migrating to different regions for breeding and wintering.
- Migration Period: Migration typically occurs in late autumn and early spring, with birds moving to their breeding grounds in spring and returning to wintering areas in fall.
- Migration Route: They generally migrate from northern breeding areas in North America and Europe to southern regions, including parts of the United States, Canada, and Europe.
- Reasons for Migration: Migration is primarily driven by the need for food and suitable breeding habitats. During winter, the availability of open water and fish is crucial for their survival, prompting them to migrate south.