Smew

Mergellus albellus

A male Smew
Photo courtesy of Ian Gereg

The Smew is a small diving duck which is often considered to be a link between the Goldeneyes and the larger Mergansers. Its range covers most of northern Europe and Asia.

These lovely little birds are not easy to raise in captivity. They are social, but they need large areas of water and lots of natural food.

The 5-7 eggs are laid in tree holes or nest boxes and incubation lasts for 26 days.