Eurasian Wigeon
NameEurasian Wigeon
Common NameEurasian Wigeon
Scientific NameMareca penelope
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)76
Length (cm)47
Weight (g)800
Plumage DetailsAdult males have a distinctive reddish-brown head with a creamy-yellow stripe from the forehead to the crown. The breast is pinkish-brown, the flanks are grey, and the belly is white. The back is finely vermiculated grey, and the speculum (wing patch) is iridescent green bordered by black. Females are mottled brown overall with a greyish head and neck, and a white belly.
Vocalization / CallThe male's call is a distinctive, high-pitched whistling 'whee-oo' or 'piu-piu'. Females produce a low growling or purring 'arrr'.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatswetland, coastal, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across northern Eurasia, from Iceland and Scandinavia east to Siberia. Winters in Western and Southern Europe, Africa, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. Vagrants occasionally reach North America.
Identifying FeaturesMale's reddish head with creamy crown, Male's grey body and pinkish-brown breast, Small, blue-grey bill with a black tip, Distinctive whistling call of the male, White belly visible in flight
Description
The Eurasian Wigeon is a medium-sized dabbling duck, often seen grazing on land or dabbling in shallow waters. Males are distinctive with their reddish-brown head, creamy crown, and grey body, while females are mottled brown. They are highly migratory, breeding across northern Eurasia and wintering further south.
