Bufflehead

The Bufflehead, Bucephala albeola, is a diminutive sea duck, notable for its bulbous head and compact size. Males are resplendent with iridescent green and purple heads, adorned with a large, conspicuous white patch behind the eye. Females present a more subdued palette, with grey tones and a smaller white cheek patch, complemented by a light underside.

Identification Tips

Males are unmistakable with their black and white plumage and iridescent heads. Females, while more understated, can be identified by their grey plumage and the distinctive white patch behind the eye. Both sexes have a swift, agile flight and can be seen in flight with rapid wingbeats.

Habitat

The Bufflehead's breeding habitat includes wooded lakes and ponds within the boreal forests of Alaska and Canada. In winter, they frequent protected coastal waters or open inland waters across North America's east and west coasts and the southern United States.

Distribution

These birds are migratory, with a wintering range that spans the coastal and southern regions of North America. They are also known to winter on the Great Lakes and are an extremely rare vagrant to western Europe.

Behaviour

Buffleheads are highly active and social, though they tend to form smaller flocks compared to other species. They exhibit a cooperative behavior where one individual acts as a sentry while others dive for food. Known for their punctuality, they are among the last to depart their breeding grounds and arrive at their wintering grounds with remarkable consistency.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of the Bufflehead are less commonly heard, but they include soft, low-pitched grunts and whistles, particularly during the breeding season.

Breeding

Monogamous by nature, Buffleheads often return to the same nesting site annually. They nest in tree cavities near water, frequently using old Northern Flicker nests. The female lays an average of nine eggs, which are incubated for about 30 days. Ducklings leap from the nest cavity a day after hatching and fledge at around 50-55 days old.

Diet and Feeding

Buffleheads are diving ducks, foraging underwater in water depths of 1.2–4.5 meters. Their diet varies by habitat; in freshwater, they consume mainly insects, while in saltwater, they feed on crustaceans and mollusks. Aquatic plants and fish eggs may also be significant food sources.

Conservation status

The Bufflehead is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. While their numbers have remained relatively stable, habitat degradation poses a significant threat to this species. They do utilize man-made nest boxes but require specific forest habitats for optimal thriving.

In the voice of David Attenborough: "The Bufflehead, a small but striking inhabitant of North America's waterways, continues to enchant us with its vivacious behavior and punctual migrations. As we observe these birds, we are reminded of the delicate balance of their existence and the importance of preserving their natural habitats."