Tufted Duck
Aythya fuligula
Overview
The Tufted Duck is a diving duck, regularly submerging to feed on the bottom of deeper water bodies. The drake is boldly black and white with a distinctive drooping crest (the 'tuft') and yellow eyes. They sit low in the water and bob to the surface after dives. At Marshside they use the main lagoon and are regular visitors to any deeper water. A cheerful, compact duck that's one of the more reliable winter waterfowl on the Sefton Coast.
At a Glance
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Habitat | Freshwater lagoon · Reservoir · Coastal lake |
| Diet | Molluscs, aquatic invertebrates, plant material — all obtained by diving |
| UK population | Around 20,000 breeding pairs; winter population much larger with continental birds |
| Sefton Coast | Regular at Marshside and on deeper freshwater bodies through winter |
| Conservation | UK Green List |
Where to See It
Marshside RSPB lagoons and any deeper freshwater on the Sefton Coast. Diving duck.
Identification
Drake: black with white flanks, drooping tuft on head, yellow eye. Duck: brown with smaller tuft, pale patch at base of bill. Dives regularly. Often seen in rafts.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Scan the main Marshside lagoon for diving ducks. Tufted Ducks dive and surface repeatedly and are easy to watch. Yellow eye visible at reasonable range.
Conservation Status
UK Green List
This species is on the UK Green List, indicating a healthy population status in the UK context. It remains an important component of Sefton Coast biodiversity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How deep can a Tufted Duck dive?
Tufted Ducks typically dive to 2–3 metres, though they can reach 7 metres. Dives usually last 15–25 seconds. They are propelled underwater by their large webbed feet, with wings held closed. They feed on mussels, snails and other invertebrates on the bottom, which they swallow whole.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.