Your wildlife photography guide.
Explore the crested duck in detail, study its behavior, prepare your shots.
Where to observe and photograph the crested duck in the wild
Learn where and when to spot the crested duck in the wild, how to identify the species based on distinctive features, and what natural environments it inhabits. The WildlifePhotographer app offers tailored photography tips that reflect the crested duck’s behavior, helping you capture better wildlife images. Explore the full species profile for key information including description, habitat, active periods, and approach techniques.
Crested Duck
Scientific name: Lophonetta specularioides
IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: ANATIDAE
Group: Birds
Sensitivity to human approach: Tolerant
Minimum approach distance: 10 m
Courtship display: October to December
Incubation: 27-30 jours
Hatchings: October to January
Habitat:
High-altitude lakes, marshes, slow-moving rivers
Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.
Identification and description:
The Crested Duck, or Lophonetta specularioides, is a medium-sized Andean duck, recognizable by its subtle crest and brown-gray plumage with iridescent wing highlights. It inhabits high-altitude lakes, marshes, and slow rivers, mainly in the Andes and Patagonia. Well adapted to cold, windy environments, it is omnivorous, feeding on aquatic vegetation, invertebrates, and occasionally small fish. This duck is gregarious yet discreet, often seen in small groups. Its population is considered stable overall.
Recommended lens:
400mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.
Photography tips:
To photograph the Crested Duck, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture precise details without disturbing the bird. Look for areas near high-altitude lakes or marshes where these ducks are often present. The best times to observe them are early in the morning or late afternoon when the light is soft. Be patient and discreet to get natural shots.
From knowledge to field practice
A species profile helps you understand an animal. In the field, the challenge is often different. Remembering your own observations.
The WildlifePhotographer app allows you to:
• record your personal observations
• note locations, dates, and behaviors
• revisit your field references over time
• build a private and long-term field logbook
The app does not provide observation locations.
It helps you organize what you actually observe, with respect for wildlife.