RB Merganser or Goosander?

[subbysmith]

These were taken a while ago by my wife. Just found them on the computer. Taken in July 2010.

[PeterB]

From what I can make out the bill says RBM but I don't know. When someone answers I hope can you also say why it is one or the other.

[MIKE THROWER]

1st Winter/Female type Goosanders, here is an adult I took yesterday.

[dales birder]

Looking at the thicker bill I would opt for juv.Goosander but quite happy to get shot down for being wrong

[MIKE THROWER]

Originally Posted by dales birder

Looking at the thicker bill I would opt for juv.Goosander but quite happy to get shot down for being wrong

They are young 1st year Winter Goosanders, female type 100%

[dales birder]

Thanks for confirming Mike but winter ? it says they were taken in mid summer

[MIKE THROWER]

Originally Posted by dales birder

Thanks for confirming Mike but winter ? it says they were taken in mid summer

1st Year birds keep Redheads till about Jan-Feb then to they moult to adult male or female as do Smew. Watched a Smew a few years back go from Redhead to male in 3 Months. Here is Adult male on the 27th.

[dales birder]

Love that close up of the male,smart looking fellow.

[Dave Appleton]

Goosanders indeed - though I agree they're in their first calendar year, at this time of year (July) it's equally accurate to describe them as juveniles.