The handsome Hooded Merganser appears exclusively in North America, unlike other Mergansers.  At 16-19” it is one of our most beautiful waterfowl.  This duck’s thin spike-like bill with saw-like teeth and crested head give it a distinct profile.

Looking a bit like, “a casual, unkempt teenager with a spiky ‘punk cut’ crest,” (Dunne, 2006), the male Red-breasted Merganser strikes a bold appearance when in its alternate, breeding plumage.

Common Goldeneyes are very fast fliers.  They have been clocked at speeds over 30 mph (Eadie et al).  The “Whistler” as it is commonly known, has wing beats so rapid they make a metallic whistling sound during flight.