The hooded merganser is a species of fish-eating duck in the subfamily Anatinae. It is the only extant species in the genus Lophodytes. The genus name derives from the Greek language: lophos meaning 'crest', and dutes meaning 'diver'. The bird is striking in appearance; both sexes have crests that they can raise or lower, and the breeding plumage of the male is handsomely patterned and coloured. The hooded merganser has a sawbill but is not classified as a typical merganser.
Region
North America
Typical Environment
Breeds in forested wetlands across eastern North America and locally in the Pacific Northwest, favoring ponds, swamps, beaver impoundments, and slow rivers. Winters mainly in the southeastern United States, Pacific Coast, and along ice-free inland waters. Prefers clear, shallow waters for hunting and requires nearby mature trees for nesting cavities. Common in small wooded ponds and oxbows, and will use estuaries and sheltered coastal bays in winter.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The hooded merganser is the only extant member of the genus Lophodytes and is famed for its striking expandable crest. It nests in tree cavities near water and readily uses nest boxes, which has aided local increases. Its narrow, serrated bill helps it grip slippery prey like small fish and aquatic invertebrates. Males display their dramatic white hood during courtship.
Female at Walsrode Bird Park, Germany
Lophodytes cucullatus - MHNT
Hybrid with common goldeneye, in Ontario
Temperament
wary and alert
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen in small groups outside the breeding season, sometimes associating loosely with other ducks. Pairs form in late winter; nesting is in natural cavities or nest boxes near water, with down-lined cups. Females may occasionally lay eggs in other merganser or wood duck nests (egg-dumping). Broods are precocial; ducklings leap from cavities soon after hatching and follow the hen to water.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Males give low, frog-like croaks and a hollow, rolling hooo-doooo during display, often accompanied by crest-raising. Females produce a harsh, rasping gak or kek-kek and soft chatters when communicating with young.
