Bird Guide

Barrow's Goldeneye vs Harlequin Duck

Barrow's Goldeneye (Bucephala islandica)

Barrow's Goldeneye

Bucephala islandica

Large921 gWetland

Adults are similar in appearance to the common goldeneye. On average, adult males are 49 cm (19.2 in) long and weigh 0.97 kg (2.13 lb); females are typically 43 cm (17 in) long and weigh 0.59 kg (1.31 lb). The Barrow's goldeneye has a wingspan of 70–73 cm (28–29 in). Adult males have a dark head with a purplish gloss and a white crescent at the front of the face. Adult females have a mostly yellow bill. Voice: The Barrow's goldeneye is a relatively quiet bird that generally only makes vocalizations during the breeding season and courtship. These can include low volume squeaks, grunts and croaks. During flights, the fast movement of the bird's wings creates a low whistling sound.

ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Photo: ChrisMcV · CC0
Harlequin Duck (Histrionicus histrionicus)

Harlequin Duck

Histrionicus histrionicus

Large562 gMarine

Adult breeding males have a colorful and complex plumage pattern. The head and neck are dark slate blue with a large white crescent marking in front of the eye that extends up to the crest, a small round dot behind the eye, and a larger oval spot down the side of the neck. A black crown stripe runs over the top of the head, with chestnut patches on either side. A black-bordered white collar separates the head from the breast. The body is largely a lighter slate blue with chestnut sides. A black-bordered white bar divides the breast vertically from the sides.

ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Photo: Jakub Hałun · CC BY 4.0

Where you might meet both

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Photos and recordings are credited to their authors under the licence shown. Full profiles: Barrow's Goldeneye and Harlequin Duck.