Hooded Merganser

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".

Videos

Images

Credit: Len Blumin

Credit: Rick Leche

Credit: Larry Bond

Credit: Michelle Lamberson

Distribution Maps

Hooded Merganser distribution map

Hooded Merganser winter distribution map