They are called buffleheads just because they are.

The name "buffle" comes from a 17th century word for buffalo.
Supposedly,the shape of a males head is similar to an American bison.
Yeah, right.

Bucephala albeola

Males are striking black-and white from a distance. A closer look at the head shows glossy green and purple setting off the striking white patch.

The Bufflehead nests almost exclusively in holes excavated by Northern Flickers and, on occasion, by Pileated Woodpeckers.

The oldest Bufflehead on record was at least 18 years and 8 months old. It was caught and re-released by a bird bander in New York in 1975.

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