Full continent with the only exception of northern tundra areas. Seen during summer in most of the US, excepting the central plains. Seen in the winter in most all of Canada except the tundra area. Seen year-round inland coastal waters of northern California (Tule Lake), Oregon and Washington; and the northern side of the Great Lakes. Seen during migration in the central plains.

Seen on woodland lakes and ponds in summer where they next in tree cavities. Winters on sheltered coast and large lakes often in flocks. Can spring directly into flight.

Small bird overall, large puffy head, steep forehead, short gray bill. Male has a glossy black head and neck with white patch from the eye to rear crown and down to top of neck; bold black and white pattern seen when in flight. Female is gray brown with a white oval cheek patch, white belly and speculum.

This methinks is probably one of the hardest of the water foul family to photograph for the simple reason this species flees when any human approaches. Not just swimming away like most water foul, but often bursting into a rapid flight.

Up very early and drive to the Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge for another day of photographing the unbelievable number of birds here as well as the vast quantity of different types of birds.

Up to get coffee and WiFi. Then I study for the morning meeting and later arrive at nine. After the meeting, when talking with a brother named Jordan, he tells me that he takes wildlife photos and that this area is a Flyway for the birds.

Soon after, I drive to the Klamath Basin refuge, change clothes and then begin taking photos of the many different birds. I am so impressed with this Flyway, as much as the Rio Grande Valley and end up getting photos of several birds I have never seen before. I will have to sort through my photos real soon to determine the actual count of new birds.