Common Goldeneye

Common Goldeneye

Common Goldeneye Overview

This duck is aptly named for its golden-yellow eye. Adult males have a dark head with a green shimmer, a round white patch under the eye, a dark back and a white belly and neck. Adult females have a brown head and a grey body. Their feet and legs are orange-yellow.


Frequently Asked Questions

👁️ Why is it called the Common Goldeneye?

The species is named for its distinctive golden-yellow eyes, which are especially noticeable in adult males.

🦆 What does a Common Goldeneye look like?

Adult males have a dark greenish-black head with a white cheek patch and bright eyes, while females have brown heads, gray bodies, and orange-yellow legs and feet.

🌍 Where do Common Goldeneyes live?

They inhabit lakes, rivers, and coastal waters, mainly in northern regions. In Hawaii, sightings are rare and usually involve migratory individuals.

🪶 Are Common Goldeneyes migratory?

Yes. They are migratory waterfowl that breed in northern forests and migrate to southern coastal areas for winter.

🔍 How can I identify a male versus a female Common Goldeneye?

Males have a bold white patch near the bill and iridescent dark heads, while females are more muted with brown heads and no white cheek patch.