Hooded Merganser
A Winter Standout
Photo and article by Rick Jordahl
Whenever we spot ducks with white plumage visible, we naturally wish to take a closer look. Winter ducks make for great sightings, especially those that stand out from the crowd, such as the Hooded Merganser.
Fall and Winter birding on local lakes and ponds can result in sightings uncommon throughout the rest of the year. For instance, the intriguing Hooded Merganser is a species that grabs one’s attention and is always a treat to find. This small, active diver is often seen on winter outings, and a favorite for many of us. They feed by diving and catching small fish, tadpoles, crustaceans and insects in active underwater pursuits.
port distinct crests on the back of their heads. At times of excitement or agitation the males exhibit their full, fan-shaped white crest, bordered in black, so memorable each time it is seen. Females are duller with a bushy brown crest. Their breeding habitat includes small wooded ponds and swamps in northern U.S and southern Canada.
Both male and female Hooded Merganser (Lophodytes cucullatus) sport distinct crests on the back of their heads. At times of excitement or agitation the males exhibit their full, fan-shaped white crest, bordered in black, so memorable each time it is seen. Females are duller with a bushy brown crest. Their breeding habitat includes small wooded ponds and swamps in northern U.S and southern Canada.
The ‘hoodie’s’ bright yellow eye, distinct hood, and slender pointed bill are unmistakable field marks. And when startled, the Hooded Merganser is on of our fastest flying ducks. Often seen in pairs or small groups of up to a dozen, they are commonly seen with other species such as Common Goldeneyes.
Even while resting they retain an alert posture, ready for a feeding opportunity or any new challenge.
Watch for winter Hooded Mergansers in small wooded ponds, rivers or estuaries. Once identified, you will never mistake a Hooded Merganser and they will likely become one of your favorites.
A Winter Standout
Photo and article by Rick Jordahl
Whenever we spot ducks with white plumage visible, we naturally wish to take a closer look. Winter ducks make for great sightings, especially those that stand out from the crowd, such as the Hooded Merganser.
Fall and Winter birding on local lakes and ponds can result in sightings uncommon throughout the rest of the year. For instance, the intriguing Hooded Merganser is a species that grabs one’s attention and is always a treat to find. This small, active diver is often seen on winter outings, and a favorite for many of us. They feed by diving and catching small fish, tadpoles, crustaceans and insects in active underwater pursuits.
port distinct crests on the back of their heads. At times of excitement or agitation the males exhibit their full, fan-shaped white crest, bordered in black, so memorable each time it is seen. Females are duller with a bushy brown crest. Their breeding habitat includes small wooded ponds and swamps in northern U.S and southern Canada.
Both male and female Hooded Merganser (Lophodytes cucullatus) sport distinct crests on the back of their heads. At times of excitement or agitation the males exhibit their full, fan-shaped white crest, bordered in black, so memorable each time it is seen. Females are duller with a bushy brown crest. Their breeding habitat includes small wooded ponds and swamps in northern U.S and southern Canada.
The ‘hoodie’s’ bright yellow eye, distinct hood, and slender pointed bill are unmistakable field marks. And when startled, the Hooded Merganser is on of our fastest flying ducks. Often seen in pairs or small groups of up to a dozen, they are commonly seen with other species such as Common Goldeneyes.
Even while resting they retain an alert posture, ready for a feeding opportunity or any new challenge.
Watch for winter Hooded Mergansers in small wooded ponds, rivers or estuaries. Once identified, you will never mistake a Hooded Merganser and they will likely become one of your favorites.