Lophodytes cucullatus
Least Concern
Known as the 'masked diver', the Hooded Merganser is an enchanting waterbird that graces the wetlands of North America. With its distinctive fan-shaped crest and expert diving skills, this bird is a captivating sight as it hunts for fish and crustaceans beneath the water's surface.
Brown
Brown
Brown
Black, White
Grey, White
Grey, White
Black
Black
Black
Long
Black
Yellow
Yellow
Orange
Orange
Orange
Crested head, white breast with two black stripes
Smaller crest, less distinctive markings
Smaller crest, less distinctive markings
Dark and fan-shaped
Dark and fan-shaped
Dark and fan-shaped
40cm to 49cm
Length
60cm to 66cm
Wingspan
453g to 879g
Weight
Click on an image below to see the full-size version
Female Hooded Merganser
Female Hooded Merganser swimming with her duckilings
Hooded Merganser in-flight
Female Hooded Merganser bathing in a lake
Hooded Merganser feeding on crawfish during winter
Portrait of a Female Hooded Merganser
Close-up of a Hooded Merganser
Low croaking and quacking
Males produce a frog-like croak, females a hoarse quack
Sharp, high-pitched quack
Active during the day, often seen diving for food
Solitary or in small groups, forms larger flocks in winter
Defends nesting territories, but not feeding areas
Migrates south in winter, some populations resident
Generally peaceful, but can be aggressive in defense of nest
Fish, Crustaceans, Insects
Dives underwater to catch prey
Morning and late afternoon
Chases prey underwater
Diet varies with season and location
None known
Tree cavities near water
Uses existing cavities, lined with feathers
Spring
One
Creamy white, oval
Approximately 5cm x 4.5cm
5-13 eggs
Around 30 days
Leave nest 1 day after hatching, but will stay for up to 5 weeks
Female incubates eggs and cares for chicks
North America, small vagrant populations in Europe
Wetlands, rivers, lakes
Sea level to 1500m
Migrates south in winter, some populations resident
Freshwater, Temperate Forest
Temperate
Please note, this range and distribution map is a high-level overview, and doesn't break down into specific regions and areas of the countries.