Generally uncommon and fairly local small diving duck. Frequents lakes, reservoirs, and rivers. Shy, often found alone or in small groups; frequently kept in European waterfowl collections. Both sexes have bushy crest. Striking male mostly white with black face mask and fine black lines on sides of breast and flanks. Female has dark rusty brown head with big white throat and cheek patch. In flight appears strikingly black-and-white.
The smew is 38–44 cm (15–17 in) long, with a wingspan of 56–69 cm (22-27 in), and a weight 450–650 g (16-23 oz)
This duck is not endangered, labeled as least concern.