The tufted duck is a medium-sized diving duck, smaller than a mallard. It is black on the head, neck, breast and back and white on the sides. It has a small crest and a yellow eye. In flight it shows an obvious white stripe across the back of the wing. It breeds in the UK across lowland areas of England, Scotland and Ireland, but less commonly in Wales, with most birds being residents. Numbers increase in the UK in winter because of birds moving to the UK from Iceland and northern Europe.
Key ID Features:
In winter male is dark, with purplish irridescence on head and neck, and white flanks on a black body.
Long wispy tufts are visible on head in breeding plumage.
It has a bluish bill with a black tip.
Bold white wing-bars are visible in flight.
Overview
Scientific name: Aythya fuligula
Family: Swans, ducks and geese (Anatidae)
Where to see them:
Found across the UK at most times of year. Look in suitable habitat such as a local reservoir, gravel pit or lake.
Seen in UK:
All year round.
What they eat
Molluscs, insects and some plants.
Text (c) RSPB, used with permission
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Photographer: Tim Tapley
