Smew by danob
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No AI - This artwork was created entirely by hand or with traditional digital tools.
Description
The Smew is one of 3 species of Sawbills that occurs in Europe the others being Goosander (Mergus merganser) and Red-breasted Merganser (Mergus serrator). Sawbills are diving ducks with a small hook at the tip of the bill which also has a serrated edge enabling better grip of fish, its main prey.
This male in its breeding plumage is unmistakable while the female, juvenile and eclipse plumage males all look very similar with their "red head".
During the breeding season they live in freshwater lakes and rivers in the coniferous forests to the very north of Europe and Asia. Like the Goldeneye (Bucephala clangula), with which it sometimes interbreeds, it nests in tree hollows.

Comments (64)
Quite Superlative Danny! vote
Excellent as always Danny. I have heard of these, but never seen one, where was this taken?
Lovely picture !!!!!
I like the colors of the water! And of course the details of the bird!
excellent photography !!!!!!!!! #:O) !!!!!!!
the water & bird with his own fishing hook are so beautiful! absolutely phenomenal shot!! :] hugz
This is gorgeous! I love how the water looks!
Fantastic capture of this most beautiful animal!
too lovable and excellent capture!!!!!
Oh what a superb and sweet creature... this is a fabulous capture, Danny !!!
Very beautiful image of what we call a 'nonnetje'. It is many years ago that I saw this bird for the last time. I never saw it that close as you present it here... I think this is the best photograph I've ever seen of this bird !!!
OMGosh ... such a beautiful bird !!!! I have never seen one like this before --- you have captured it soooo perfectly. Can I make him my wallpaper? :)
You guys come out with crazy pics.........;)
You are a master of natural photography, no doubt about that. So many fantastic shots, and well composed images you have made.. one more fantastic than the other. You should (if not already) make picture for places like National Gegraphic. Excellent stuff! *V
A noble bird. Very slendiferous, organized and formal plumage. The subtlety of the color cauaght is a treasure.
Very good shot. the water is splendid.
wonderful lighted and special capture of this Sawbill! beautiful details of the feathers and fantastic colors and reflection on the water! ;o)
Woww fantastic !!! excellent capture ! v
Viewing this is like being there. It couldn't be better.
Never heard of this bird The Smew but love the feather and its pretty too Vote n hugs Susan~
Lighting, water, reflection, clarity... everything is perfect about this! VOTE (1) Smew!
an excellent pic.
What a silly looking bird!!!!! helluva a capture!smooth & sleek!
Stunning capture, beautiful detail on the plumage and I love the DOF on the water!
Amazing shot Danny! Luv those water ripples and the reflection! A funny name for a cute bird... :O)
lovely little duck Dan...great species...wonder who thought of THAT name..lol :)
Your work is always top notch my friend, and this is no exception, what a bueatiful creature, captured by your camera, outstnding work..........John
Too bad a small part of the tail is missing.. awesome detail though!
Absolutely stunning Dan! The water ripples are irresistable! Wow!
I just love this amazing image, beautiful detail on the plumage and I love the DOF on the water as many have said ! !