Bufflehead

What is Bufflehead?

The Bufflehead (Bucephala albeola) is a small, rapid-flying duck belonging to the family Anatidae. Measuring approximately 33–39 cm (13–15.5 inches) in length, it is recognized as one of the smallest species of hunted waterfowl.¹

The species is characterized by distinct plumage: the male (drake) is black and white with a prominent white wedge on the back of his head, while the female features a white bar located below and behind her eye. Buffleheads breed in woodland ponds and bogs across regions ranging from Alaska to Ontario, typically nesting in tree holes previously abandoned by flickers. Their diet primarily consists of small aquatic invertebrates, supplemented by fish during the winter months. Known for their lack of shyness, these birds often return to their original location after being flushed.¹

Why do Buffleheads nest in abandoned flicker holes?

Buffleheads nest in abandoned flicker holes because, like many other waterfowl species, they are hole-nesters that do not construct their own nesting sites. Instead, they rely on utilizing preexisting cavities, such as those created by flickers in trees near water, to provide a secure environment for their eggs. This behavior is a common strategy among various ducks and shelducks, which readily adopt available crevices, tree holes, or even artificial nesting boxes rather than building nests from scratch.¹²

How do male and female Buffleheads differ in appearance?

Male and female Buffleheads exhibit distinct plumage differences that make them easy to identify:

• Male (Drake): Features a striking black-and-white color pattern, characterized by a prominent white wedge on the back of his head.¹
• Female: Displays a more subdued appearance, distinguished by a white bar located below and behind her eye.¹

What other types of ducks are in the Anatidae family?

The Anatidae family is a diverse group of aquatic birds that includes not only ducks, but also geese and swans. Within the subfamily Anatinae, ducks are categorized into several distinct tribes based on their biological characteristics and behaviors:⁴⁵

• Dabbling ducks (Tribe Anatini): These birds typically feed in shallow water by tipping up rather than diving. Common examples include the mallard, gadwall, shoveler, and black duck.⁶⁵
• Diving ducks (Tribe Mergini): This group includes species adapted for diving, such as the Bufflehead mentioned previously.⁵
• Perching ducks (Tribe Cairinini): Known for their tendency to perch in trees.⁵
• Pochards (Tribe Aythyini): Often grouped with other diving ducks in popular usage.⁵
• Stifftails (Tribe Oxyurini): A specialized group of ducks.⁵
• Whistling ducks (Tribe Dendrocygnini): Also known as tree ducks.⁵
• Other forms: The family also includes shelducks, steamer ducks, and torrent ducks.⁵