Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Smew
Scientific name: Mergellus albellus
IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: ANATIDAE
Group: Birds
Shyness: Very shy
Safe distance: 20 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 15.04-15.05
Gestation: 25 à 30 jours
Births: 15.05-30.06
Habitat:
Lakes, ponds, and calm rivers with riparian vegetation
Description:
The smew is a small diving duck, 38–42 cm long, with the male’s striking black-and-white plumage and the female’s more subdued brownish tones. It inhabits lakes, ponds, and calm rivers with riparian vegetation in boreal and temperate regions. An expert diver, it feeds on small fish and aquatic invertebrates.
Recommended lens:
>=300 mm
Photography tips:
Photograph the smew from a distance using at least a 300 mm telephoto lens on calm waters at sunrise or sunset to take advantage of soft light and capture its spectacular dives. Position yourself low near the water for an immersive angle, and be patient: this bird may dive for long periods before resurfacing.
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