Smew — Rare Diving Duck Recorded in India


Scientific Name

Mergellus albellus

Classification

  • Family → Anatidae.

  • Small diving duck.

  • Migratory bird.

  • Breeds primarily in northern Eurasian regions.

  • Associated with lakes, slow rivers and other freshwater habitats.

  • IUCN status → Least Concern.

India Context

Recent records from Assam, including the Laokhowa landscape, have generated interest because of the rarity of the species in India.

Prelims Trap

Smew is a duck, not a goose or swan.