Merginae
subfamily of birds
The Merginae or seaducks are a subfamily of the Anatidae, the duck, goose and swan family of birds.
| Sea Ducks | |
|---|---|
| |
| Harlequin Duck, Histrionicus histrionicus (male) | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | |
| Phylum: | |
| Class: | |
| Order: | |
| Family: | |
| Subfamily: | Merginae
|
As the name suggests, most are marine outside the breeding season. Many species have specialized salt glands to allow them to tolerate salt water, but these have not yet developed in young birds. Some species prefer riverine habitats.
