Hooded Merganser

Population

Estimated: 1,100,000 mature individuals^[3]

Trend: Increasing^[2]

Population slowly increasing overall, but some local declines

Elevation

Up to 1,500 meters

Additional Details

Egg size:

Approximately 5cm x 4.5cm

Predators:

Main predators include raccoons, minks, and large fish. Birds of prey such as hawks and owls may also target adults and young.

Alarm calls:

Sharp, high-pitched quack

Breeding age:

2

Maturity age:

2

Feeding times:

Morning and late afternoon

Major threats:

Habitat loss, pollution, climate change

Parental care:

Female incubates eggs and cares for chicks

Primary calls:

Low croaking and quacking

Social habits:

Solitary or in small groups, forms larger flocks in winter

Egg appearance:

Creamy white, oval

Feeding habits:

Dives underwater to catch prey

Breeding season:

Spring

Diet variations:

Diet varies with season and location

Fledging period:

Leave nest 1 day after hatching, but will stay for up to 5 weeks

Average lifespan:

10

Call description:

Males produce a frog-like croak, females a hoarse quack

Daily activities:

Active during the day, often seen diving for food

Nesting location:

Tree cavities near water

Number of broods:

One

Incubation period:

Around 30 days

Nest construction:

Uses existing cavities, lined with feathers

Migration patterns:

Migrates south in winter, some populations resident

Migratory patterns:

Migrates south in winter, but some populations are resident

Age related changes:

Older males have larger crests

Prey capture method:

Chases prey underwater

Conservation efforts:

Protected under the Migratory Bird Act, nest box programs

Territorial behavior:

Defends nesting territories, but not feeding areas

Reproductive behavior:

Monogamous, often returning to same nesting site

Special dietary needs:

None known

Clutch characteristics:

5-13 eggs

Interaction with other species:

Generally peaceful, but can be aggressive in defense of nest