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ADULT MALE Has rather large, rounded head that looks black and white in poor light; good light reveals an iridescent purple sheen to black elements. Body plumage is otherwise white, except for black back. Eclipse and first-winter males recall adult female.
ADULT FEMALE Dark brown back and head, except for striking white oval patch on cheek. White on wing can be glimpsed in swimming birds. Neck and underparts grayish white.
JUVENILE Similar to adult female.
Dimensions
Length: 13-15"
Voice
Mostly silent
Discussion
Small, distinctive diving duck with a dainty bill. Feeds on aquatic
invertebrates. Male is unmistakable and female is easy to identify when plumage
and size are considered fully. In flight, all birds show white inner flight
feathers and take off almost vertically from water when alarmed