Watercolor portrait of Red-breasted Merganser (Mergus serrator)

Red-breasted Merganser

Mergus serrator
Uncommon to common depending on season Rasping courtship whine

Learn to identify the Red-breasted Merganser by ear. Master the "prrr-prrreee-reerp" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“prrr-prrreee-reerp”

What the Red-breasted Merganser sounds like

A slim, diving duck built for speed under water. Both sexes show a thin, straight, saw-toothed red bill designed to grip slippery fish, and a ragged, windswept crest on the back of the head. Males in breeding plumage display bold contrasts of iridescent dark green head, rusty breast band, and black-and-white sides; females and immatures are gray-brown with a rusty head.

“prrr-prrreee-reerp”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:During spring displays the male utters a low, rattling whistle followed by a nasal wheeze while stretching the neck. Often written as “prrr-prrreee-reerp”.
Don't confuse with:The Common Merganser — lacks rusty breast on males (white instead).

Where you'll hear it

Long-distance migrant. Breeds across boreal forests and tundra regions of North America, Greenland, Iceland, and northern Eurasia and winters along temperate coasts and large unfrozen lakes.

Large freshwater lakes and rivers during the breeding season; sheltered coastal bays, estuaries, and ice-free inshore waters in winter. Prefers clear water with abundant small fish.

Northbound migration peaks March–May, nesting from late May through July. Post-breeding molt and southbound migration August–November. Winters December–March, often forming loose rafts just beyond the surf line.

Similar species

Common Merganser

Lacks rusty breast on males (white instead).

Hooded Merganser

Much smaller overall; male shows striking black-and-white expandable hood.

Redhead (female)

Has broad, flat duck bill, not slim and saw-toothed.

Red-breasted Merganser song FAQ

What does a Red-breasted Merganser sound like?
During spring displays the male utters a low, rattling whistle followed by a nasal wheeze while stretching the neck. Listen for the "prrr-prrreee-reerp" phrase.
How do I tell a Red-breasted Merganser from a Common Merganser by sound?
Common Merganser: Lacks rusty breast on males (white instead).; Bulkier with thicker bill and smooth, not shaggy, crest.; Female has clean white chin and sharper division between reddish head and white breast..
When is the best time to hear a Red-breasted Merganser?
Northbound migration peaks March–May, nesting from late May through July. Post-breeding molt and southbound migration August–November. Winters December–March, often forming loose rafts just beyond the surf line.