tufted duck

The Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula) is a distinctive and common diving duck found across much of temperate and northern Eurasia. Known for its striking appearance and energetic diving, it is a frequent inhabitant of urban parks and wild wetlands alike.

This medium-sized duck measures between 40-47 cm in length. The adult male is unmistakable with its jet-black plumage, contrasting bright white flanks, and a prominent drooping crest (the "tuft") on the back of the head. Females are generally dark brown with paler flanks and a much smaller crest. Both sexes possess characteristic vivid yellow eyes and a blue-grey bill with a black tip.

Tufted Ducks primarily inhabit freshwater environments, including deep lakes, ponds, reservoirs, and slow-flowing rivers. They are well-adapted to human-made landscapes and are commonly seen on gravel pits and ornamental park lakes. During winter, they may move to more open water or brackish coastal lagoons.

As skilled divers, their diet consists mainly of aquatic invertebrates. Key food sources include:

• Mollusks (particularly zebra mussels)
• Aquatic insects and their larvae
• Crustaceans
• Occasional seeds and aquatic vegetation

Breeding usually begins in late spring. The nest is a well-concealed cup of grass and leaves, heavily lined with down, typically situated on the ground near the water's edge or on small islands. A single clutch usually contains 8 to 11 olive-green eggs.

The Tufted Duck is a gregarious species, often forming large, tight-knit flocks during the winter. They are expert divers, submerged for several seconds at a time to forage on the bottom of water bodies. Unlike dabbling ducks, they must take a short running start across the water's surface to become airborne.

The Tufted Duck is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. Its population is large and has expanded significantly in some regions, partly due to the creation of new reservoirs and the spread of invasive mussel species which serve as a food source.

1. The scientific name Aythya fuligula is derived from the Greek 'aithuia' (a seabird) and the Latin 'fuligo' (soot), referring to its dark color.
2. The tuft on the male's head is most prominent during the breeding season to attract mates.
3. They have benefited greatly from the spread of the Zebra Mussel, which has become a staple of their diet in many European lakes.
4. Tufted Ducks are known to occasionally nest in colonies alongside gulls and terns for added protection from predators.

To spot a Tufted Duck, visit local freshwater lakes or even urban ponds with deep water. Look for the white 'flash' on the sides of the males and watch for their frequent diving. Using binoculars will help you see the intense yellow eye that distinguishes them from other dark diving ducks like the Scaup.

With its unique silhouette and bold coloration, the Tufted Duck is a favorite among bird enthusiasts. Its ability to thrive in both wild and urban settings makes it an accessible and fascinating subject for anyone interested in the diverse world of waterfowl.