Measurements
Both Sexes
- Length
- 15.7–19.3 in
40–49 cm - Wingspan
- 23.6–26 in
60–66 cm - Weight
- 16–31 oz
453–879 g
Other Names
- Harle Couronné (French)
- Serreta capuchona (Spanish)
Cool Facts
- The Hooded Merganser is the second-smallest of the six living species of mergansers (only the Smew of Eurasia is smaller) and is the only one restricted to North America.
- Although up to 44 Hooded Merganser eggs have been found in one nest, one female probably does not lay more than about 13. Larger clutches result when more than one female lays eggs in a nest.
- The Hooded Merganser finds its prey underwater by sight. The merganser can actually change the refractive properties of its eyes to enhance its underwater vision. In addition, the nictitating membrane (third eyelid) is very transparent and probably acts to protect the eye during swimming, just like a pair of goggles.
Habitat
Lake/Pond
- Breeds in forested wetlands.
- In migration and in winter found in wider range of open waters, along coasts, and in shallower waters than other mergansers.
Food
Fish
Fish, aquatic insects, and crustaceans (especially crayfish).
Nesting
Nesting Facts
- Clutch Size
- 5–44 eggs
- Egg Description
- White
- Condition at Hatching
- Covered with down, eyes open. Leave nest within one day after hatching.
Nest Description
Nest in tree cavity or nest box, lined with downy feathers from chest of female.
Nest Placement
Cavity
Behavior
Surface Dive
Dives underwater to catch prey.
Conservation
Least Concern
Populations appear stable.
Credits
- Dugger, B. D., K. M. Dugger, and L. H. Fredrickson. 1994. Hooded Merganser (Lophodytes cucullatus). In The Birds of North America, No. 98 (A. Poole, and F. Gill, eds.). The Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia, PA, and The American Ornithologists' Union, Washington, D.C.