Deep Forest Canopy
Species Radar
Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl

Hooded Merganser

Lophodytes cucullatus

The hooded merganser is a species of fish-eating duck in the subfamily Anatinae. It is the only extant species in the genus Lophodytes. The genus name derives from the Greek language: lophos meaning 'crest', and dutes meaning 'diver'. The bird is striking in appearance; both sexes have crests that they can raise or lower, and the breeding plumage of the male is handsomely patterned and coloured. The hooded merganser has a sawbill but is not classified as a typical merganser.

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Low-Light Telephoto Systems

Identifying specific features of the Hooded Merganser requires high-contrast magnification. Check out the top-rated 8x42 optics.

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