Common Merganser x Red-breasted Merganser Hybrid
Common Merganser x Red-breasted Merganser Hybrid
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This hybrid occurs between two of the most widespread merganser species, the Common Merganser and the Red-breasted Merganser. While both are fish-eaters, they differ in habitat preference and head shape, making their hybrid offspring a unique identification challenge.
Where to spot
Can be found across the northern hemisphere in areas where the breeding or wintering ranges of both species overlap. Look on large freshwater lakes, rivers, and coastal estuaries.
How to spot
Focus on the head: look for a crest that is less prominent than a Red-breasted but more defined than a male Common Merganser's. The bill color and shape, and the distinctness of the chest/flank coloration, can also reveal mixed parentage.
When to spot
More likely to be observed during the non-breeding season (winter and migration periods) when both species can be found together on larger bodies of water.
Where to spot
Can be found across the northern hemisphere in areas where the breeding or wintering ranges of both species overlap. Look on large freshwater lakes, rivers, and coastal estuaries.
How to spot
Focus on the head: look for a crest that is less prominent than a Red-breasted but more defined than a male Common Merganser's. The bill color and shape, and the distinctness of the chest/flank coloration, can also reveal mixed parentage.
When to spot
More likely to be observed during the non-breeding season (winter and migration periods) when both species can be found together on larger bodies of water.
Hybrids between these two species are known to occur, often showing an intermediate crest size and shape, as well as a blend of the distinct head color patterns of the parent species.
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