131. Lophodytes cucullatus 
HOODED MERGANSER. $18 inches 
Male. Above, whole head black, with large crest like a hood 
white, edged with black; back black, with long white feathers, 
wing-patch white. Below, breast white, running up in two points 
to the back ; sides reddish brown; bill black ; feet yellowish brown. 
Female. Above, head reddish brown, crest small; back brown ; 
wing-patch white; sides grayish. Below, white. Immature 
Male. Similar to female but crest whitish with brown edge. 
Found on ponds and rivers. 
Nest. In hole of a tree near water. 
Breeds. Northern portion. An uncommon migrant in March, . 
April, October and November. 
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