HOODED MERGANSER, Lophodytes cucullatus

March

Photo by George McLean Photography

This handsome diving-duck appears in small groups soon after the ice has cleared on bodies of fresh water such as Bullough’s Pond or Crystal Lake. Both the male and the female have handsome crests and colorful feathers. They dive for fish and aquatic insects, and can remain underwater for long periods. Most move further north to breed, but a few remain in Massachusetts year-round.

More information

All About Birds

eBird

Nature of New England

Wikipedia