Many of the diving ducks have elaborate courtship displays that are entertaining to watch.

All divers will need their diets supplemented with extra protein they also require a good quality of water and may not do well in small ponds that wood ducks and mandarins often thrive in. If you are experienced with wild ducks and you love a challenge this group might be for you. Most ducks from the diving group are quite difficult to breed and/or raise.  Although it is very rewarding to keep and raise any of these species, because of their special needs and the difficultly in raising their young we do not recommend any birds from this group to beginners. More information on each species can be found in the individual listings below.