Barrow's Goldeneye
NameBarrow's Goldeneye
Common NameBarrow's Goldeneye
Scientific NameBucephala islandica
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)76
Length (cm)47.5
Weight (g)975
Plumage DetailsAdult males have an iridescent purplish-green head with a prominent white crescent-shaped patch between the eye and the bill, bright yellow eyes, a black back, and white breast and flanks. Females have a brown head, a white neck collar, a gray body, and a yellow-tipped bill.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, especially outside of breeding season. Males may produce a high-pitched whistle during courtship displays, while females give a low, guttural 'garr-garr' call.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, wetland, coastal, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in western North America, primarily in the Rocky Mountains and along the Pacific coast, and also in Iceland and Greenland. Winters along coastal marine waters and large freshwater bodies.
Identifying FeaturesMale: iridescent purplish-green head, Male: white crescent patch at bill base, Yellow eyes, Steep forehead, Female: brown head with white neck collar, Female: yellow-tipped bill
Description
A medium-sized diving duck, the male Barrow's Goldeneye is striking with an iridescent purplish-green head and a distinctive white crescent patch at the base of its bill. They are agile swimmers and divers, foraging for aquatic invertebrates and small fish in freshwater and marine environments.
