Facts, Information, Scientific Name of Merganser
Let us learn about the Duck which has a unique, sharp Fish-hunting beak.
Common name- Merganser
Scientific name- Mergus
Size- 58cm-72cm
Type- Aves.
Distribution and Habitat-
Merganser can be seen in Lakes, Forests, Rivers, and saltwater areas in countries of Europe, Asia and North America.
Appearance, Habit and Diet-
Male Merganser has a Black head, black wings and white belly.
Female Merganser has Brown heads and black-and-white plumage.
The beak is red but adopted as a ‘Fish-eating’ beak.
The sharp and pointed beak has serrated edges that are pointed which can Grasp a fish easily. These ‘serrated bills’ are also known as ‘Saw bills’. These saw bills are useful to catch prey like Crustaceans, Fishes, Worms, Insects, Larvae, Amphibians, Mammals and Birds.
The foot is red and adapted for swimming as well as running, even in a clumsy way.
Breeding and Nesting-
The sexual Maturity of the Merganser reaches 2 years.
Nests can be situated in Tree holes, Holes in Cliffs, High Banks, and Forest Habitats.
Females lay a clutch of 6-17 eggs. After the hatching, she carries the ducklings with the bill towards the sea for foraging and feeding.
‘Creches’ is a group of young Merganser and a Female Merganser that dwells in the sea together, so that the ducklings can learn Foraging.
Merganser is the Partial Migrant which doesn’t stay in Frozen water and moves to a suitable place.
Also See ⇒ Long-tailed Tit Facts