The size of the white patch on the head of a hooded merganser depends on whether the crest is raised or lowered.
Black and White Ducks
In March I showcased five male ducks with green on their heads. Here are five black and white male ducks and some of their distinctive field marks. Ducks are plentiful here in Denver during the winter months. Where there is water, there is a duck, provided the water is not frozen.
Bird Walks: April 4 & May 2. Two start times: 7:30am and 8am. Walks are free, but you must RSVP at blufflake.org/birdwatching. All are welcome. Bring your own binoculars or borrow a pair from your guide. 11255 MLK Jr. Blvd.
Bufflehead has purple-green iridescence on its black head, depending on how the sunlight illuminates it.
Common goldeneye has a round to oval-shaped white patch on its cheek. The piercing golden eyes are prominent but not unique.
Ring-necked duck has a white ring on its bill. The ring around its neck is brown and blends in with its black body.
The lesser scaup (above)and the ring-necked duck (left) are often mistaken for each other, but their bills are quite different.
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