Species:

Common Merganser

Time in Care:

7 Days

Status:

Released

Patient 3681, a common merganser is not a common sight for SBWCN. The only merganser we had in care this year, 3681 was brought in because she was found in an unusual location and severely dehydrated. Mergansers are water birds, yet this individual was found far from a water source that would properly support it. Upon intake she was given a thorough examination where our care staff found that she had abrasions around her fragile feet. We treated 3281 with supportive medication and pain control, as well as protective booties to mitigate further damage to her feet. She was carefully monitored as she rested and responded well to treatment. After only one week in care she was ready to be released onto a lake which would provide all of the necessary requirements for a merganser to thrive. 

Common Merganser Facts:

• They're amazing divers and swimmers, using their powerful feet to propel underwater while chasing fish, amphibians, and aquatic insects.
• Common mergansers have long, narrow beaks with serrated edges which are used to help grip and hold on to fish.
• Even though they’re large ducks, mergansers nest in tree cavities, often high off the ground.
• When flying, their fast wingbeats make a distinctive whistling or humming sound, especially during takeoff.