Smew

The smew (Mergellus albellus) is a captivating species of duck, the sole representative of its genus. The male, with its striking black-and-white plumage, evokes the image of cracked ice or a panda, making it an unmistakable sight. Females and immature males, often referred to as "redhead" smew, display a more subdued grey coloration with chestnut on their foreheads and crowns. In flight, the smew reveals distinctive oval white wing-patches. Its bill, adapted for piscivory, is equipped with a hooked tip and serrated edges, perfect for securing slippery fish.

Identification Tips

When identifying the smew, look for the male's bold black-and-white pattern and the female's grey plumage with chestnut highlights. The white wing-patches are a key feature in flight. The smew measures 38–44 cm in length, with a wingspan of 56–69 cm, and weighs between 450–650 g.

Habitat

The smew favors fish-rich lakes and slow-moving rivers within the northern taiga of Europe and the Palearctic. It requires trees for successful breeding.

Distribution

This species is known to breed in the northern reaches of Europe and Asia. Come winter, it migrates to the sheltered coasts or inland lakes of the Baltic and Black Seas, northern Germany, and the Low Countries. A small number may reach as far as Great Britain, with occasional vagrants observed in North America.

Behaviour

The smew is a migratory bird, departing its breeding grounds for winter havens. It prefers lake edges, often beneath small trees. Known for its shyness, the smew is easily startled and will take flight if disturbed.

Breeding

Breeding occurs in May, with the smew laying 7–11 cream-colored eggs. The female incubates these for 26–28 days, and the ducklings are quick to leave the nest post-hatching. They achieve flight approximately 10 weeks later. The smew nests in tree holes, often utilizing old woodpecker nests.

Diet and Feeding

The smew's diet consists primarily of fish, which it catches by diving, using its specially adapted bill.

Conservation status

The smew is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, although its population is noted to be in decline. It is protected under the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA).