Scaly-sided Merganser

Mergus squamatus

The Scaly-sided Merganser is a striking duck species found in East Asia. It is known for its distinctive black and white plumage, with a scaly appearance on the flanks. These ducks prefer fast-flowing rivers and wooded streams for breeding, where they nest in tree cavities. They are adept divers and feed primarily on fish and aquatic invertebrates. The Scaly-sided Merganser is considered vulnerable due to habitat loss, river pollution, and disturbance from human activities.

Habitat: Fast-flowing rivers and wooded streams