The hardhead, also known as the white-eyed duck, is the only true diving duck found in Australia. The common name "hardhead" has nothing to do with the density of the bird's skull, instead referring to the difficulty encountered by early taxidermists in processing the head. Hardheads are found in wetter, coastal regions of Australia, particularly in the south-east, but are known to disperse as far afield as New Guinea, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands.
Region
Australia and New Guinea
Typical Environment
Hardheads occupy freshwater wetlands across much of Australia, with highest densities in the temperate southeast and southwest. They favor large, deep lakes, farm dams, reservoirs, and permanent swamps, but will also use flooded inland wetlands after rain. They generally avoid fast‑flowing rivers and very shallow, vegetated marshes. Dispersive individuals occasionally reach New Guinea, New Zealand, and nearby Pacific islands. Local abundance can change rapidly as birds track water availability across the landscape.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the white‑eyed duck, the hardhead is Australia’s only true diving duck, adapted to feed in deeper water than most local waterfowl. The name “hardhead” arose from the difficulty early taxidermists had skinning its densely feathered head, not from a thick skull. Males have striking white eyes, while females have brown eyes, making sexing at distance relatively straightforward. They are highly dispersive, often moving long distances after rains to exploit newly filled inland wetlands.
Temperament
social and gregarious
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats and swift direct flight
Social Behavior
Often forms mixed flocks on open water, especially on large reservoirs and lakes. Pairs form during the breeding season, with nests built over water among dense reeds or shrubs. The female incubates while the male remains nearby on open water; brood mixing can occur on crowded wetlands.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Generally quiet; males give soft whistling notes and low grunts during display. Females produce harsher quacks and growls, especially when disturbed at the nest. Wing noise is minimal compared to some dabbling ducks due to compact, rapid flight.
