Red-breasted Merganser

Scientific Name: Mergus serrator

Population Estimate: 510K - 610K, Least Concern status

Range and Habitat: Breeds on deep lakes and slow-moving rivers throughout most of Canada, Greenland, Iceland and most of northern Europe and Asia. Winters mostly at sea, extending somewhat south from the breeding areas.

Field Notes: Large diving duck with long, thin, orange bill and shaggy crest. Female and male plumage as above. Goosander similar but with with clean crest.

Personal Notes: One of our local Minnesota birds that is always nice to see elsewhere around the world.