The Tufted Duck breeds by nutrient-rich lakes and ponds and in archipelagos, preferably on islets and under the protection of Black-headed Gull colonies, which afford a degree of protection against predators. The nest is a grass-lined hollow near the water. The female normally lays 8–11 eggs and incubates them alone for about 23–28 days. The young are nest-leavers that can swim and dive shortly after hatching and find food for themselves under the female's watch.