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Bufflehead Duck
Bucephala albeola
Did you know?
- These energetic little ducks prefer to live in well-forested ponds or swamps.
- In the summer, they hunt insects and small crustaceans. But in the winter, they eat the seeds of aquatic plants.
- Uniquely, buffleheads nest in the holes found in trees.
- Males attract a female by bobbing its head, lifting its wings and displaying crest feathers.
- Females usually lay eight to 10 eggs.
Diving Ducks
Buffleheads are expert divers, able to stay under water for more than a minute, then often popping up a long way from where they disappeared. One duck usually remains on the surface to watch for danger as the rest of its group dives for food.
What's in a Name?
The large ("buffalo"-sized) head of this diving duck is said to have earned the species its name. The male is black on top and white on bottom, and his black head sports a large white patch extending from the eye to the back of the head. The female is dark brown above, paler below and has a small white cheek patch.
Threat Level
- Unknown
- Common
- Near Threatened
- Threatened
- Endangered
- Critically Endangered
- Extinct in the Wild
Common
The Bufflehead Duck is widespread and abundant.
Range
North America
Habitat
Lakes, ponds, rivers, swamps
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We care about Bufflehead Ducks
The Saint Louis Zoo supports bufflehead ducks in the Cypress Swamp. Learn more about how we are helping wildlife around the world.
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Find this animal in The Wild
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SAINT LOUIS ZOO ZONE
The Wild
You’ll find penguins, puffins, grizzly bears, gorillas, chimpanzees, to name a few. And while visiting, you can take a ride on the Conservation Carousel or hop aboard and ride the Zooline Railroad. There are also gift shops and eateries you can enjoy.