Hooded Merganser Gallery

Hooded mergansers are almost too beautiful for words, particularly the males. These shy ducks have a crest that can be raised (as seen here), lowered like normal, or even flattened back against their heads when they get ready to dive.

Hoodies are stunning creatures, especially the males. They're one of those birds that I see more often than I photograph. A handful of them winter on a creek near where I work, although they usually are not visible from where I walk. It's not the most photogenic location, so I don't photograph them there, but I always love seeing them. These mergansers were hanging out in quiet channels at Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. The first bird was preening and the rocking motion of his body disrupted the mirror-like surface of the water.