Tufted duck Aythya fuligula

Common black and white diving duck with drooping crest; female brown

Habitat: freshwater lakes and reservoirs

Common and widespread resident

Male: black with white flanks, dark head with drooping crest; female pale brown with dark brown head and less formed crest

Dives frequently to feed, often with pochard; occurs in large flocks

Eats plants and aquatic invertebrates; flight strong and direct

Nest is a lined hollow near water, well hidden

1 Brood April – June; 5-12 eggs greenish