Smew

The male's white plumage is beautiful.

Scientific name	Mergellus albellus
English name	Smew
Japanese name	Mikoaisa
Classification	Aves
Classification details	Anseriformes Anatidae
Full length	38-44cm
Distribution	Moves south from the northern part of the Eurasian Continent in the winter, and winters north of Kyushu.

Characteristics

A member of the duck family with a beautiful male white plumage. Males are pure white from the face to the neck and belly, with black around the eyes and cheeks. The back is a mixture of black and gray. The impression at first glance from a distance is white. The feathers on the back of the head are dark green. The female has a brown head, a white neck and a gray body. Both males and females have lead-colored beaks with a slightly hooked tip.

Ecology

Found in rivers and lakes in winter. They are omnivorous and eat fish and small aquatic animals. They often drift in flocks of several birds.

Habitat

Lake Suwa Kamaguchi Water Gate

I was in a flock of 10 or more at the Kamaguchi water gate in the afternoon. Drifting leisurely, it moved a little farther when it saw a person. Many individuals were taking a nap with their heads stuck in their wings. I think it's quite beautiful among ducks.