Scientific Name: Aechmophorus occidentalis
Size: Large waterbird Weight: Approximately 1.4-2 kilograms (3-4.4 pounds) Lifespan: Up to 15 years
Physical Description:
- Elongated body with slender neck
- Breeding plumage: black head and neck, white body
- Non-breeding plumage: gray-brown body with white underparts
- Long, pointed bill
Habitat:
- Freshwater lakes and ponds
- Coastal waters during migration
Diet:
- Primarily fish, but also consumes aquatic insects and crustaceans
Behavior:
- Excellent swimmer and diver
- Known for elaborate courtship displays
- Nests on floating platforms of vegetation
Conservation Status: Least Concern, but populations declining in some areas.