Hooded Merganser

Lophodytes cucullatus

41-48 cm (16-19") Uncommon. Wooded ponds, lakes, and rivers. Small diving fish-eating duck found only in North America. Nests in tree cavities or nest boxes near wooded ponds, lakes, and rivers; winters near coast mostly on fresh waters.

Male: black head crested with contrasting large white patch running from behind eye to back of head; thin pointed spike-like dark bill; black back; reddish-brown sides; white breast with two black lines before sides.

Female: blackish-brown overall, darker on back; head has bushy reddish-brown crest; thin pointed spike-like bill; upper bill dark, lower bill yellowish.

In flight: rapid wingbeats; gray wing linings; thin bill; folded crest shows as white line on male's head.

Song: froglike croak, toneless "gak".

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Credit: Birdchick

Distribution Maps

Hooded Merganser distribution map
Hooded Merganser distribution map
Hooded Merganser winter distribution map
Hooded Merganser winter distribution map