© Photo by Shirley Freeman Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula Our commonest diving duck, nesting on flooded gravel pits and lakes and reservoirs, and gathering in large flocks in the winter, often mixed with Pochard and Coot. © Photo by Guy Edwardes/2020VISION Tufted Ducks feed on water-weed, plant seeds and aquatic invertebrates. How to Identify Tufted Ducks are very distinctive: the female is entirely chocolate-brown, while the male is black with white flanks and a long tuft at the back of the head. Where to Find Found throughout the country, on lakes, reservoirs and gravel pits. How People Can Help Even our commonest ducks are under threat from the loss of wetland habitats due to human activity; the Tufted Duck is no exception. The Wildlife Trusts manage many wetland nature reserves for the benefit of the wildlife they support. You can help by supporting your local Trust and becoming a member; you’ll find out about exciting wildlife happenings, events on your doorstep and volunteering opportunities, and be helping local wildlife along the way. Did you know? The scientific name of the Tufted Duck fuligula means ‘sooty throat’. Like most ducks, the ‘drake’ or male has nothing to do with the incubation of eggs or raising of young. Females have eight to eleven eggs in a brood; the young becoming independent once their true feathers have fledged. Key FactsLength: 41-45cmWingspan: 70cmWeight: 760gAverage lifespan: 4 years Donate Donate to help support Tufted Ducks and other wildlife. Donate Similar Species Barn Owl Birds Black-Headed Gull Birds Blackbird Birds Blackcap Birds