The "Tuftie" has habitat needs which are akin to those of the Pochard and this duck likes freshwater even more, although their habitats are very similar the food preferences of the Tufted duck varies greatly to that of the Pochard. The Tuftie takes much more animal matter consisting of molluscs, insect larvae and crustaceans with relatively small amounts of vegetable matter and seeds being eaten. The food is usually gleaned from the beds of lakes and reservoirs.
At distance the Tuftie appears mainly black with large white wing bars towards the rear edge of the wings it does however have a bright yellow eye which is a distinctive feature and a black chest with white under body. Its name is derived from the crest of black feathers which protrude from the back of its head. Confusion may arise with the Scaup (protected) which is similar but has a pale grey back and does not have the crest of feathers, its bill is also longer and broader than the Tufted ducks.