Hunting regulations change. The information on this page reflects what we know about species presence and hunt availability based on state agency listings. For current season dates, bag limits, weapon restrictions, tag requirements, and reporting obligations, verify directly with NY DEC. You are responsible for confirming current regulations before hunting.
What we know
Bufflehead is general season in New York. NY DEC sets season dates, bag limits, and weapon restrictions. Verify with the agency before hunting — Bield Hunt does not yet ship those specifics.
About the species
Buffleheads are small (12-15 ounces), striking diving ducks that breed in tree cavities across boreal Canada and Alaska and winter on coastal bays and inland reservoirs across most of the US. Drakes display a distinctive black-and-white head pattern with a prominent white patch behind the eye. Population is stable.
Bag limits typically include buffleheads in the duck aggregate. They're easy to identify on the wing and decoy readily to small diver spreads. Their small size makes them more of a passing-shot bird than a primary target for most duck hunters.
Other waterfowl in New York
Pattern bufflehead in New York.
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