Hooded Merganser: here’s the scoop
threats
This species has undergone a large and statistically significant increase over the last 40 years in North America. Overhunting was once a reason for their decline as well as habitat alteration. As with all birds that nest in tree holes, dead trees are important habitat components and landowners can improve hooded merganser habitat by leaving dead trees on their property.
Species
Hooded Merganser
Scientific name
Lophodytes cucullatus
Habitat
Marshes, small lakes, ponds, wetlands, forested rivers, brackish bays and tidal estuaries
Diet
Fish, aquatic invertebrates, insects, amphibians and vegetation
life expectancy
12 – 15 years
Did you know?
Hooded mergansers often lay their eggs in other females’ nests. This is called “brood parasitism”. Female hooded mergansers can lay up to 13 eggs in a clutch, but nests have been found with up to 44 eggs.
Range
North America
Conservation status
Least Concern
Widespread and abundant
