Hardhead

01 · Identification

How to tell it apart

A medium-sized, sturdy duck with a compact profile, the Hardhead is predominantly deep chocolate-brown with rich rufous-tinted flanks. In flight, it reveals a striking, broad white band across the trailing edge of the upper wing and almost entirely white underwings. The belly is white but usually remains submerged while the bird is swimming. Sexual dimorphism is most evident in the eyes: the male has piercing white eyes that stand out against the dark head, while the female’s eyes are dark brown. The species is generally quiet when on the water but more vocal during flight or when disturbed. The female gives a harsh, rattling 'gaark' call. The male produces a soft, wheezy whistle and a low, vibrating 'whirr' sound, though these are typically only audible at close range. As Australia’s only true diving duck, the Hardhead is rarely seen on land and never perches in trees. It feeds by diving smoothly underwater, often staying submerged for up to a minute to forage for aquatic plants and small invertebrates. It sits low in the water and takes off by pattering along the surface before gaining height. It is often found in small groups or large, tight-knit flocks. This duck prefers deep, permanent freshwater lakes, swamps, and sluggish rivers with large areas of open water. While concentrated in the south-east and the Murray-Darling Basin, it is highly nomadic and disperses widely across the continent in response to rain or drought, appearing in flooded grasslands and urban wetlands. It generally avoids saltwater and coastal environments. Distinguish the Hardhead from the Grey Teal by its much darker plumage and heavier build; the Grey Teal is paler with a notably white throat. The Pacific Black Duck is larger and shows prominent dark facial stripes. The white eye of the male is diagnostic among Australian ducks, while the diving habit and uniform dark brown plumage separate the female from other similar-sized waterbirds.

Description · BirdUp · CC BY-SA 4.0