Goosander (Mergus merganser).
January 2, 2012 in Biopedia, Birds by PaulS
These handsome diving ducks are a member of the sawbill family, so called because of their long, serrated bills, used for catching fish. A largely freshwater bird, the goosander first bred in the UK in 1871. It built up numbers in Scotland and then since 1970 it has spread across N England into wales, reaching SW England.
Goosanders breed in Scotland and England, including Derbyshire. It’s possible they may have bred in the valley but generally only come into our patch during their winter migration. Look for them on any open body of water, river or canal.
Male Goosanders.
Female Goosander.
Male and female.
Four beauties you’ve got here Paul.