Smew

Mergus albellus

Appearance:
Small, compact diving duck
Short, hook-tipped, serrated bill
White wing patches
Male:
   White with black mask
    Black markings on back and breast
    White crest lined with black
    Pale-gray flanks and belly   

male

Female & Juveniles: 
   Grey with reddish-brown head
   White cheeks

female

I saw this pair at the London Wetlands in early April.  Despite being rather petite, they stood out as a result of the male's dazzling breeding plumage.  Magnificient!

Learn more about the Smew.