Hooded Merganser

-Lophodytes cucullatus-

The Hooded Merganser is a small diving duck, the only member of the genus Lophodytes. Unmistakable for its colorful plumage and prominent puffy crest. White head patches are fan shaped and conspicuous when crest is raised. Winters in fresh or brackish water. The small pond at Hazel Bazemore park on the banks of the Nueces River is the best viewing location in the Coastal Bend.