A very large duck, black overall with greenish iridescence. Upper and lower wing coverts are white, forming a large white patch in flight, and occasionally visible as a white line along the folded wing at rest. The bill is pale with a black subterminal band. Males are significantly larger than females, with more iridescence, a bushy crest, and warty growths at the base of the bill. Juveniles lack the white wing patch and resemble cormorants in flight. Domestic strains are common at parks throughout North America. These birds show extensive and variable areas of white plumage and red facial skin.

Length: 64 (cm) Wingspan: 137 (cm)

Habitat:

Riparian forest.

Behavior:

Nests and roosts in tree cavities. Will use man-made nest boxes.

Feeding:

Mostly surface feeding, diet includes aquatic vegetation, small fish, insects, fruits, crabs, and nuts