Buffleheads

(Male and Female Buffleheads)

So often when you cry out “Bufflehead” to your companion birders, you’re seeing the ducks at a distance. On a bright day, the male’s head will look coal black with a large white patch and his body, too, will be sharply contrasted in black and white. The female’s color is much less distinct but the patch of white under her eye stretching back to the rear of the head will identify her. You must be quick because they’ll dive in an instant if they see you first.

Then there are times when you get close and the sun is just in the right position. The black of the male’s head turns iridescent and leaves you wondering how birds got to be so darned beautiful.

“Why the name Bufflehead?” you may ask. “Buffle” is an archaic word for “Buffalo.” It may be that the bird’s apparent large head, a result of flared feathers, reminded someone long ago of the once abundant residents of our Great Plains.

Buffleheads are always a highlight on any trip.