The Bufflehead bird is a small, sea duck that is native to North America. These ducks are a delight to watch, with their striking black and white plumage and their unique behavior. Their head is disproportionately large and round, with a distinctive white patch stretching from one eye to the other.
Buffleheads belong to the genus Bucephala, which means "bull-headed" in Greek. This name indicates their large, round head, which is particularly noticeable in males. Buffleheads have a distinctive vocalization, a low, guttural croak that is quite unlike the high-pitched quack of other ducks.
These birds are relatively small, with a length of about 13 to 16 inches and a wingspan of around 21 inches. They are very agile in the air and on the water. Buffleheads are also known for their unusual behavior - they dive deep underwater to search for food. This behavior is not typically seen in other ducks and sets the Bufflehead apart from its peers.
Buffleheads are highly territorial and tend to be found in pairs or small groups. They are known for being aggressive in their defense of a chosen territory. These birds are found primarily in North America, from Alaska to Mexico, and they prefer to habitats such as lakes, ponds, and other bodies of fresh water. They are also migratory birds, traveling to coastal areas in the winter months.
Bufflehead birds are known to form long-term monogamous pairs during breeding season. Females lay between 1 to 18 eggs in tree cavities, with incubation lasting 28-32 days. Both parents take turns incubating eggs and caring for their young.
Despite being hunted for sport and for their feathers in the past, the Bufflehead bird is now a popular bird for birdwatchers due to their distinctive look and behavior. Their striking appearance and unique habits make the Bufflehead a fascinating bird to observe in its natural habitat.