The Hooded Merganser (Lophodytes cucullatus) is a small diving duck that can be found in North America. It is one of the smallest members of the merganser family, measuring between 13-19 inches in length and weighing between 13-21 ounces. They have a distinctive appearance with a large, fan-shaped crest on their head, a black and white body, and a brownish-red eye.
The male Hooded Merganser has a black head with a large white patch, while the female has a reddish-brown head with a smaller, less distinct crest. Both sexes have a thin, pointed bill that is ideal for catching small fish and aquatic invertebrates. They also have striking yellow eyes that stand out against their dark plumage.
Hooded Mergansers are migratory birds and can be found in the southern parts of their range throughout the year. However, during the winter months, they will migrate to more temperate areas in the southeastern United States, Mexico, and Central America. In the summer, they breed in the northern parts of their range, including Canada and the northern United States.
One of the unique features of the Hooded Merganser is its courtship display. During breeding season, the male will fan out his crest, shake his head, and make a series of low, grunting calls to attract a female. Once a pair has bonded, they will work together to build a nest in a tree cavity near water. The female will lay a clutch of 9-12 eggs, which will hatch after about a month of incubation.
In addition to their striking appearance and courtship displays, Hooded Mergansers are also known for their diving abilities. They can dive up to 20 feet deep in search of prey, and can stay underwater for up to 25 seconds at a time. They primarily eat small fish, insects, crustaceans, and mollusks, and are an important part of many aquatic ecosystems.
In conclusion, the Hooded Merganser is a small but striking diving duck found in North America. It is characterized by its distinctive black and white plumage, large crest, and yellow eyes. It is a migratory bird that breeds in the northern parts of its range and winters in more temperate areas. Its courtship display, diving abilities, and role in aquatic ecosystems make it a fascinating bird to observe and study.