This small diving duck is generally uncommon and tends to be fairly localized. It typically inhabits lakes, reservoirs, and rivers. It is a shy bird, often found alone or in small groups, and is frequently kept in European waterfowl collections. Both males and females have a distinctive bushy crest. The male is primarily white with a black face mask and fine black lines on the sides of the breast and flanks, while the female has a dark rusty brown head with a prominent white throat and cheek patch. In flight, it presents a striking black-and-white appearance.