This tiny diving duck is recognized by its thin serrated bill, thick bushy crest, and fairly long tail. Male: Black head with yellow eyes and a black bill. When the crest is erect, shows a large white wedge outlined in black. When the crest is lowered, the white wedge narrows to a line running back from the eye. The white breast is separated from the rusty sides by two heavy black lines. The back is black, the belly white. Female: Warm gray-brown overall with a thick bushy crest that is reddish brown. The back is darker, the belly white. The lower mandible is yellow, while the upper is dark. A small white speculum is sometimes visible. Flight style is direct with very rapid wingbeats, among the fastest of all waterfowl.

Length: 41 (cm) Wingspan: 61 (cm)

Voice:

Usually silent. Gives a low croaking sound during courtship.

Habitat:

Nesting occurs in wooded wetlands and riparian woodlands. In non-breeding seasons, can be found in shallow wetlands, bays, and estuaries, usually near trees or heavy cover.

Behavior:

Nests in tree cavities and nest boxes. Often deposits eggs in nests of Wood Ducks or other Hooded Mergansers. Females perform “broken wing” display to lure predators away from eggs or broods.

Feeding:

Dives for fish, aquatic insects, and crustaceans.