Hooded Merganser

Seen one? Add it to your free US BirdedexHear its song and see the mapFree, no app download. Uncommon bird: +3 points when you log it.

Habitat and behaviour

Habitat: Lakes, marshes, coastal bays.
Diet: Aquatic plants, seeds, invertebrates.
Best time to spot: Best in winter flocks.

When to look

Check local eBird bar charts for timing in your state; range and season vary a lot across the US.

How rare is it?

The Hooded Merganser sits in our Uncommon tier for the US: regular, but you usually need the right place or the right season. It belongs to the ducks, geese, and waterfowl family.

Recent US sightings

Similar birds

• Black ScoterUncommon · Lakes
• Black SwanUncommon · Lakes
• Cackling GooseUncommon · Lakes
• CanvasbackUncommon · Lakes
• Cinnamon TealUncommon · Lakes
• Common EiderUncommon · Lakes

Kit that helps

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