Bufflehead Duck

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The Bufflehead duck (Bucephala albeola) is a small sea duck, common to many regions of the United States.

Like other sea ducks, Buffleheads are adaptable to both fresh and salt water habitats.

Buffleheads typically breed in fresh water habitats in the northern areas of the United States, extending into Canada. They winter in large numbers along both the Atlantic and Pacific coast, although smaller winter populations can also be found inland.

Field identification is usually easy. Females, like the one in the picture at the top, have black feathers on the top of the head and body with a small white patch on the face.

Males have a larger white patch on the head.

In the sun, the darker head feathers shine and irridescent purple and green.

Like Wood Ducks, Buffleheads are one of a few duck species that breeds in trees and nest boxes.

© 2002-2008 Patricia A. Michaels