Red-breasted Merganser

1/1600s at f8.0, ISO:800 Canon EOS-1D X w/800mm x1.4 converter


The Red-breasted Merganser is a large diving duck. They mainly eat small fish, but also aquatic insects, crustaceans, and frogs. Its breeding habitat is freshwater lakes and rivers across northern North America, Greenland, Europe, and Asia. It nests in sheltered locations on the ground near water. It is migratory and many northern breeders winter in coastal waters further south. It has been claimed to be the fastest bird in level flight, reaching speeds of 161 km/h (100 mph), but is disputed whether the White-throated Needletail is faster, reportedly flying at 170 km/h (105 mph).
Bolsa Chica Wetland/Upper Newport Bay California
 
11/14/2012