Description
Common Goldeneye
Bucephala clangula
Diving Ducks
Waterfowl Family (Anatidae)
Size: Length: 33 cm Wingspan: 79 cm
Description: This entertaining diver is a common winter resident through the southern portion of the study area. It nests occasionally along the foothills, but is more common out towards the plains. In winter, look for it on rivers where the current is sufficient to prevent freezing. The body of the male is largely dark above and white below. The dark head has a white cheek spot. This spot is smaller than the crescent shaped cheek spot of the similar, and more common Barrow’s goldeneye The common goldeneye has a greenish sheen on the head, while Barrow’s has a more purple sheen. Females are drab and gray with a reddish head, and a white neck collar.
They nest in cavities in trees, occasionally in nest boxes. After hatching, the nestlings flutter from their lofty nest and waddle after their mother towards the water.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.