Bird Description

Common n. breeder in wet wooded areas. One of the commonest ducks in winter on the coast, both in sheltered and exposed areas. Usually in small groups. ID: Noticeably smaller and slighter than COME. Punky crest, thin bill, steep forehead, and overall shape give distinctive profile. Females, eclipse males (retain white coverts), and young birds all similarly plumaged and lack clean-cut appearance of COME. Young males develop dark around eye and bright red iris fairly early in winter. Adult at 1 year old. White-collared dark head with shaggy crest striking at distance. Complex body patterns never match 'cleanliness' of COME.