American Merganser. Order Anseres
129. Mergus americanus. 25 inches.
These birds have the bill long, not flattened, but edged with sharp teeth to grasp the fish, upon which they live to a great extent.
Nest.—In holes of trees, cavities among the rocks, or on the ground; 6 to 9 creamy buff eggs are laid (2.70 × 1.75).