Bufflehead

Bucephala albeola

The Bufflehead is a small sea duck known for its striking black and white plumage. The male has a large white patch on the back of its head, while the female has a smaller white cheek patch. These ducks are agile divers and feed primarily on aquatic invertebrates and small fish. They breed in wooded lakes and ponds in North America and winter in coastal bays and estuaries. Buffleheads are known for their fast and erratic flight patterns. They are often found in small flocks and are known for their distinctive calls. Despite being widespread, the Bufflehead faces threats from habitat loss and pollution.

Habitat: Wooded lakes and ponds in breeding season, coastal bays and estuaries in winter