Tufted Duck

🔍 Overview
A smart and common diving duck found year-round on Sussex lakes and reservoirs. Easily identified by its black-and-white plumage and diving behaviour.

🪶 Key Identification Features

• Size: Medium (42–48 cm)

• Plumage: Males black with white sides, females brown

• Distinctive Marks: Males have a drooping head tuft

• Bill: Blue-grey with black tip

• Tail: Short

• Flight: Direct and fast

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution
Widespread on freshwater bodies across Sussex, especially in winter.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour
Usually silent; dives for food and often feeds in small flocks.

🍴 Diet
Aquatic invertebrates, seeds, and plant material.

📸 Birding Tip
Good views can be had at Brooklands and Arundel WWT.