Mergellus albellus
The Smew is a small, distinctive diving duck. Males are primarily white with intricate black markings, including a black eye patch and fine lines on the sides. They have a crested head and a thin, serrated grey bill.
Females are predominantly grey with a chestnut-brown head and white cheek patch. Both sexes have grey legs and feet and a vague crest on the back of their head.
Non-breeding males moult into an eclipse plumage that is fairly similar to the colouring of a female but retains their black backs and white wing patches. Juveniles resemble females but with duller plumage.
Length
38cm to 44cm
Wingspan
55cm to 69cm
Weight
450g to 650g
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Smews breed in northern taiga forests across Scandinavia and Russia, nesting near freshwater lakes and rivers. During winter, they migrate to coastal areas and inland waters of central and southern Europe, including the UK, as well as parts of Asia.
In the UK, Smews are winter visitors found in reservoirs, lakes, and estuaries. They are more common in eastern and southern England, with smaller numbers reaching Scotland and Wales. The most common sightings are usually from Lincolnshire to the Severn estuary.
Up to 2,000 meters
Temperate, Subarctic
This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Smew. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.
A few things to keep in mind:
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