Tufted Duck

Adult males are black with white flanks and a distinct pendant crest (tuft). Females are dark brown with paler flanks and a smaller tuft. Breeding plumage is most vibrant in late winter and spring.

The hanging tuft on the head, bright yellow eyes, and clean white flanks on the black male.

Length: 40-47 cm; Wingspan: 67-73 cm; Weight: 600-1000 g

Generally silent, but males give a soft whistle 'wi-oo' and females a growling 'kar' during courtship.

Omnivorous, primarily consuming mollusks (especially zebra mussels), aquatic insects, and some plant material by diving.

Prefer open water with moderate depth, including lakes, reservoirs, ponds, marshes, and occasionally slow-moving rivers.

Migratory in the north and east; resident or short-distance migrant in temperate western and southern Europe.

Nests on the ground near water, often in thick vegetation or on islands. Lays 8-11 olive-grey eggs; only the female incubates.

Greater Scaup (lacks tuft, has grey back), Ring-necked Duck (peaked head shape, white border on bill).

Controls populations of aquatic invertebrates and helps in the dispersal of aquatic plant seeds.

Least Concern (Population stable)

Look for them in deep city park ponds or reservoirs; they are less shy than other diving ducks and can often be seen diving repeatedly in the middle of water bodies.

The Tufted Duck has greatly expanded its range in Europe over the last century, partly due to the spread of the invasive Zebra Mussel, which is one of its favorite food sources.