Bufflehead

Bucephala albeola -San Luis Obispo, California, USA -flying-8

Bucephala albeola MHNT.ZOO.2010.11.17.1

Bufflehead (Bucephala albeola) is a small North American duck that is a member of the diving duck family. The bufflehead is known for its striking plumage and its ability to dive and forage underwater. It is a popular bird among birdwatchers and is significant in various ecosystems across North America.

Description

The bufflehead is one of the smallest diving ducks in North America. Males have a distinctive large white patch on the back of their head, which contrasts with their black body. Females and juveniles are more subdued in color, with a smaller white cheek patch. Both sexes have a compact body shape and a large head, which gives the species its name, derived from "buffalo head" due to their large, bulbous head.

Habitat

Buffleheads are found in a variety of freshwater and saltwater habitats across North America. During the breeding season, they prefer wooded lakes and ponds in northern forests close to the tree line. They nest in cavity nests, often using old woodpecker holes. In the winter, buffleheads migrate to coastal bays, estuaries, and protected shorelines, where they can be seen diving for food.

Diet

The diet of the bufflehead consists mainly of aquatic invertebrates, including insects, crustaceans, and mollusks. They also consume small amounts of plant material. Buffleheads are adept divers and can go deep underwater to forage for food.

Reproduction

Buffleheads are monogamous, and pairs form during the winter months. The female selects the nesting site, usually in a tree cavity, and lays a clutch of 6 to 11 eggs. She alone incubates the eggs for about 30 days, while the male guards the territory. Once hatched, the ducklings are led to water by their mother and are able to feed themselves immediately, though they remain under her care for several weeks.

Conservation

The bufflehead is currently listed as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The population is stable, and there are no immediate threats to the species. However, habitat loss and degradation, particularly in their breeding areas, could pose future challenges. Conservation efforts focus on protecting important habitat areas and monitoring population trends.

Cultural Significance

The bufflehead has cultural significance for various Indigenous peoples across North America, who have traditionally viewed the duck as a source of food and feathers. Today, the bufflehead is also appreciated for its aesthetic value and is a popular subject among wildlife photographers and birdwatchers.