“Confidence is what makes you beautiful, not showing off.” — Author unknown
Affectionately known as “Hoodies,” Hooded Merganser males show off their striking crests, black with large white patches on either side, during late December-early January mating season.
Females display crests, too, though less showy—a light reddish-brown crest extending from the back of the head.
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Photos by Mary O’Connor, Oyster River, Old Saybrook, CT © 2018
Life Is Full of Sweet Spots 