The Auckland Island merganser, also known as the New Zealand merganser, is an extinct species of typical merganser.
Region
Subantarctic islands of the South Pacific
Typical Environment
Historically confined to rocky coasts, sheltered bays, and clear, fast-flowing streams of the Auckland Islands. It foraged among kelp beds and along wave-washed shorelines, often close to cover. Nesting likely occurred in dense vegetation, crevices, or under boulders near freshwater. It showed strong site fidelity and rarely ventured far from coastal waters.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 400 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Auckland Island merganser, also called the New Zealand merganser, was a saw-billed duck restricted to the subantarctic Auckland Islands. It was notably reluctant to fly, relying on diving and swimming along kelp-lined coasts and streams. Intense collecting and the impacts of introduced predators likely drove its rapid decline. The last confirmed specimens were taken in 1902, and the species is now extinct.
Auckland Island merganser specimen in National Museum of Ireland - Natural History, acquired from Lord Ranfurly, Governor General of New Zealand in 1904
Illustration from 1909
Drawing of the head
Temperament
wary and reclusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; reluctant flier, more often diving
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups, keeping close to rocky shorelines and sheltered waters. Likely formed monogamous pairs with strong territoriality around feeding and nesting areas. Nests were probably placed in concealed sites near freshwater, with ducklings led to feeding grounds soon after hatching.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Generally quiet; emitted low rasping croaks and soft grunts, especially during pair communication. Alarm calls were harsher and brief when disturbed at close range.
