All species
resident
Least ConcernDucks, geese and swans
Tufted Duck
A small, compact diving duck with a distinctive crest, black-and-white plumage and bright yellow eyes. Tufted ducks often disappear beneath the surface to feed.
Aythya fuligula
Lakes Reservoirs Coastal Wetlands
Size
40-47 cm
Wingspan
67-73 cm
Weight
500-1,000 g
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Molluscs, aquatic insects, plant material and small fish.
Song & Call
A soft, musical whistling from the male; female has a low growl.
How to identify
- Long black crest
- Black and white plumage
- Yellow eye
- Blue-grey bill
Conservation
Least Concern
Common winter visitor and resident; needs clean lakes with good food supply.
