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Hooded Merganser - Lophodytes cucullatus

The smallest member of merganser species in North America. Sexually dimorphic. All year around although they need a lake or slow flowing and river which isn't frozen in winter as they dive for small fishes and capture them with their sawbill.

Where & When to Spot

Although reported to be around all year long, I usually see them in late autumn and winter when they are catching small fishes in open waters. For me the best place to observe them, is Rapids Park Lachine.

Observation Logs

On every park visit, we maintain a log of species spotted and identified. If you maintain a similar list, please consider sharing it with Muuuh Wildlife Photography: Share Logs.

Location	Spring	Summer	Autumn	Winter
Park Angrignon, Montreal	0	0	1	0
Rapids Park Lachine	1	0	2	1

Times a species has been spotted, identified and logged while visiting this park. A species is reported only once / park visit. Only parks listed which we visit frequently all year long. Consult the page animal tracking about how we log observations in field.

How to Identify

Male black and white pattern of head and neck is typical and a clear characteristic to identify Hooded Merganser. Luckily, I usually see them in pairs, male and female. The crest form, the proportion of the neck and size allow the identification of females.

Photos

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