Red-breasted Merganser vs Barred Owl

In short

The Red-breasted Merganser and Barred Owl are distinct in appearance and habitat, with the merganser being a waterfowl and the owl a woodland raptor. The merganser is best identified by its slender body and spiky crest, while the Barred Owl is noted for its round head and dark eyes. Vocalizations are a key difference, as the Barred Owl is more often heard than seen.

Identification tips

1. Location and Habitat: Red-breasted Mergansers are found in water bodies; Barred Owls in forests. 2. Plumage: Look for the merganser's spiky crest and red breast. The Barred Owl has a round head and dark eyes. 3. Vocalization: Listen for the Barred Owl's distinctive call, as mergansers are usually silent. 4. Behavior: Mergansers dive for fish, while Barred Owls are more often heard than seen.

Size

The Red-breasted Merganser is a medium-sized duck, while the Barred Owl is a large owl.

Plumage

Red-breasted Mergansers have a spiky crest and a distinctive red breast, with males showing more vibrant colors. Barred Owls have a round head, dark eyes, and a barred pattern across the chest with streaked underparts.

Behaviour

Red-breasted Mergansers are diving ducks often seen in water, while Barred Owls are more often heard in forests and are less frequently seen during the day.

Habitat

Red-breasted Mergansers inhabit coastal bays and large water bodies, often in northern regions. Barred Owls are found in woodlands and forests across much of North America.

Voice

Barred Owls are known for their distinctive call, often described as 'Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you all?', whereas Red-breasted Mergansers are generally silent.