Tufted Duck
NameTufted Duck
Common NameTufted Duck
Scientific NameAythya fuligula
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)68.5
Length (cm)43.5
Weight (g)825
Plumage DetailsMales are glossy black with bright white flanks and a distinctive long crest. Females are dark brown, often with a smaller crest and sometimes a white patch at the base of the bill. Both sexes have striking yellow eyes and a blue-grey bill with a black tip.
Vocalization / CallGenerally quiet, males produce a soft, purring 'karr-karr' during courtship, while females have a harsher, growling 'karr' or 'karr-arr'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across temperate and northern Eurasia, from Iceland and the UK eastwards to Siberia. Winters in western and southern Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia.
Identifying FeaturesProminent crest (especially male), Bright yellow eyes, Male's black and white plumage, Diving behavior, Blue-grey bill with black tip
Description
The Tufted Duck is a medium-sized diving duck, easily recognized by the prominent crest on the male's head. They are typically found on freshwater bodies, where they dive to forage for aquatic invertebrates and plants.
