Common Merganser

Mergus merganser

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Aves · Anseriformes · Anatidae

About

The common merganser or goosander is a large sea duck of rivers and lakes in forested areas of Europe, Asia, and North America. The common merganser eats mainly fish. It nests in holes in trees. The name "common merganser" is used in North America, while "goosander" is used in Eurasia.

Fun Fact

Common mergansers have serrated bill edges that work like teeth, earning them the nickname 'sawbills' — the serrations grip slippery fish so effectively that almost nothing escapes.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Rivers and large lakes

Diet

Piscivore

Lifespan

10-12 years

Threats

Dam Construction
Wetland Drainage

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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