Duck ID and age/sex, Warwickshire (1 Viewer)

[Matt Griffiths]

Could anyone confirm the ID of this duck, which was photographed at Earlswood Lakes, Warwickshire in 2008 and seems to be a Smew? The only thing that puzzles me a bit is the bill, which is very pale and perhaps a bit big, but I don't have much experience with Smew. I'm also interested in people's thoughts about its age/sex - the birder who saw it noticed that there was some white on the wing (visible in pics), so thought eclipse male moulting into breeding plumage. However, could it be a first-winter? I notice that part of the back is particularly dark, and that the white cheek extends upwards behind the eye. Looking forward to people's thoughts.
Matt

 

[James Lidster]

agree its a Smew, but cant say much about the age from those photos.
James

 

[Dave Hall]

Hi Matt looks like a Smew to me but as James points out not able to age it from your photos

 

[Parker]

I agree with James & Dave.

Neil.

 

[Cheshire Birder]

redhead Smew

CB

 

[Matt Griffiths]

Thanks all for the confirmation.