Common Goldeneye

Bucephala clangula

Length: 18 inches

Wingspan: 30 inches

Seasonality: Winter / Migrant

ID Keys: White oval spot on face, yellow eye, black back and head
with white body

Common Goldeneyes are by
far the more common and
numerous goldeneye found in the state, with the
Barrow's Goldeneye being only a rare
visitor. Hunters often refer to them as
"whistlers" due to the tendency of their wings to make a whistling
sound in flight. Historical records indicate the species may have once
nested in the state, but no confirmed nesting has occurred in decades.

Habitat: Nests in tree cavities, so requires trees
near water bodies during the summer breeding season. During migration
and in winter, can be found in a wide variety of aquatic habitats, from
coastal areas to inland lakes and rivers.

Diet: Insects, crustaceans, small fish,
and some vegetation.

Behavior: Common Goldeneyes are diving ducks, with
the vast majority of food obtained from underwater. They will also
occasionally feed like a dabbling duck at the water's surface.

Breeding: Currently a non-breeder in the state.

Song: Grating cry from the male during courtship.

Migration: Winters throughout most of the United
States, summers in Canada and Alaska.