Hooded merganser
Scientific name: Lophodytes cucullatus
- How weight is recorded: Whole weight
Field notes
Appearance
Males display a distinctive large, erectile crest on the head that appears black with white patches when raised, contrasting sharply with chestnut flanks and a dark back. Females are smaller and drabber, with a russet crest and grey-brown plumage; both sexes show a slender, pointed orange bill.
Size and weight
Males: 41–48 cm long, 600–680 g; females: 38–44 cm long, 450–550 g.
Habitat
Hooded mergansers inhabit freshwater lakes, rivers, swamps, and coastal estuaries with clear water and wooded shorelines. They prefer areas with dense vegetation and tree cavities for nesting, from sea level to moderate elevations.
Distribution
Found across North America from southern Canada through the United States, with populations concentrated in eastern forests and the Pacific Northwest. Winter range extends south into the Gulf states and along Atlantic and Pacific coasts.
Diet
Hooded mergansers feed primarily on small fish (minnows, shiners, darters), supplemented with aquatic insects, crustaceans, and tadpoles.
Behaviour
Highly active divers and pursuit swimmers, particularly during early morning and late afternoon feeding periods. They are typically found in small flocks or pairs; males are vocal, producing distinctive frog-like calls during courtship.
Hunting tips
Look for small flight-feather clusters and droppings along shallow shorelines and near woody cover. Approach from upwind and use water-level or low-profile positioning to close distance; birds dive and flush abruptly when startled. Early morning glassing of quiet coves and backwater areas yields best sighting opportunities.
Whole weight
This species is logged by whole weight — the animal weighed entire, as taken.
Where it is hunted
Listed as huntable in 1 country in Huntify.
Names in other languages
- noHettesiland
- svKamskrake
- daHætteskallesluger
- fiHupputukkakoskelo
- deKappensäger
- frHarle couronné
- esSerreta capuchona
Current language: en
These field notes are general species knowledge, not legal advice. Always check the current seasons, quotas and firearm rules where you hunt.