Red-breasted Merganser

About This Species

A slender diving duck with a spiky crest, the Red-breasted Merganser is a fish-eating specialist found in coastal waters and large lakes. Males display a distinctive shaggy green head and rusty breast band.

Fun Facts

• Speed demons: One of the fastest flying ducks, reaching speeds over 80 mph.
• Diving hunters: Pursues fish underwater with serrated bill edges that grip slippery prey.
• Saltwater specialists: More often found in coastal marine habitats than freshwater.
• Cooperative feeders: Sometimes fish cooperatively in groups, herding prey into shallow water.