Tufted Duck - Aythya fuligula

Habitat

The Tufted Duck is a common resident diving duck and can be seen in large numbers on lakes and reservoirs. Most birds are resident but the numbers increase in winter as migrants from northern Europe come to the UK. Langford Lakes nature reserve is a particularly good spot for Tufted Ducks where they breed and can be seen year round.

Description

Smaller than a mallard, the Tufted Duck is easily recognisable by the crest on its head which is larger on males than in females.

Males are glossy black on the head, neck, breast and back with bright white sides and underparts and make a whistling noise. Females are dark brown in colour with pale brown sides and make a low growling noise.

Both have golden eyes and a grey bill with a black tip. They can live up to 14 years.

Biology

Like other diving ducks the Tufted Duck feeds mainly on water animals including insect larvae, small molluscs, and crustaceans which they find by turning over small stones and debris.

Nests are built on small islands in lakes in thick cover to reduce the risk of predation. The female will also use feathers from her breast to line the nest with. Up to eight eggs will be laid and the female will start incubation once all the eggs have been laid; after about a month the eggs will hatch and the ducklings will follow their mother around until they have fledged their first true feathers.

Conservation

Tufted Ducks are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) and are protected under the European Birds Directive 1979.