Bufflehead x Hooded Merganser

Bufflehead x Hooded Merganser hybrid (right, with Bufflehead), Firestone Gravel Pits, Weld County (Colorado, USA), 2nd May 2017 - copyright Steve Mlodinow

(photo ID: 3218)

Steve notes that that there is a bit of a crest, which changes in shape over time as the bird assumes different attitudes.  The white on the head is also oriented more towards rear than top.  The bill and tail are longer than those of a Bufflehead, with the entire bird being a bit larger as well.

Bufflehead x Hooded Merganser hybrid (same bird as in photo ID 3218 above), Firestone Gravel Pits, Weld County (Colorado, USA), 2nd May 2017 - copyright Steve Mlodinow

(photo ID: 3219)

Bufflehead Bucephala albeola
Hooded Merganser Lophodytes cucullatus