Bufflehead

Bucephala albeola

These small sea ducks spend the winter feeding in small groups in the lagoon. Their dense, downy plumage keeps them warm as they dive after insect larvae, clams, and shrimp. Males are black and white with large, puffy heads. Females look quite different, with gray-brown bodies and white cheek patches. After the winter, the Buffleheads will fly north to Canada or Alaska, where they make their nests in tree holes dug out by Northern Flickers.

Fun Fact:
Unlike other ducks, Buffleheads are inclined toward monogamy, often staying with the same mate for several years.

What’s for Lunch:
Crabs, snails, or mussels

Where’s Home:
The lagoon in winter; nests in ponds and lakes in Canada