Description
The Goosander is a large duck characterized by a slender body and a long, serrated bill. Adult males have distinctive plumage with a dark green head and white body, while females have gray plumage with a reddish-brown head. This species feeds primarily on fish, which it catches by diving underwater. It nests in natural or artificial cavities during the spring, often near freshwater bodies.
The Situation in Italian-Speaking Switzerland
The first breeding record of the Goosander on Lake Verbano dates back to 1998 at Castelli di Cannero. Since 2002, breeding has also been confirmed on Lake Verbano in Ticino. In recent years, the Goosander has significantly expanded its range. For nesting, it uses tree cavities or holes in cliffs overlooking the water, riverbanks, and retaining walls along rivers and lakes.
- Mergus merganser
- Grand Harle
- Gänsesäger
- Common Merganser
- 58 cm
- 78–94 cm
