Red-breasted Merganser
Learn to identify the Red-breasted Merganser by ear. Master the "prrr-prrreee-reerp" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.
What the Red-breasted Merganser sounds like
The male stretches out a rough mee-OOO that lands much closer to a cat’s complaint than to a clear whistle.
How to tell it apart
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.
How to recognize it by sight
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.
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.