Hooded merganser
The genus name of this bird “Lophodytes” comes from the Greek “lophos,” meaning crest and “dutes” meaning diver. Both males and females have crests on their heads which they can raise and lower. The females’ crest is a reddish brown, while the males’ crest is black with large white patches.
- Conservation StatusLeast Concern
- Life span11-13 years
- Body size15.7-19.3 in. long
- Native habitat Forests and wetlands of North America
- DietFish, aquatic insects, and crustaceans
