Common Goldeneye

Bucephala clangula

Immature Common Goldeneyes

The Common Goldeneye is a mid-sized diving duck that inhabits both fresh and salt waters across the northern hemisphere. There are two breeding populations, an American and a Eurasian. Outside the breeding season they are social ducks, found in large rafts on lakes and coastal waters.

Adult males have a circular white spot on the face just behind the bill. Females lack this distinguishing spot. The eye, of course, is a golden yellow.

Common Goldeneyes usually nest in trees, but occasionally will use animal burrows near the water. Clutches average 10 eggs and under natural conditions incubation may range from 27-32 days.