Common Goldeneye vs Barrow's Goldeneye Identification
- Zach (Head Flocker)
- Apr 29, 2024
- 3 min read
These diving ducks can be confusing to new birders. Read below to learn the major ID points for discerning the Common Goldeneye from the Barrow's Goldeneye.
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This identification guide will focus on the major identification features between the male Common and Barrow's Goldeneye. At the end of the post, we will summarize the most useful identification keys for each sex. In our comparison photos, we do include both sexes of each species, so use those comparisons for female-type birds.
Which goldeneye have you seen?
Common
Barrow's
Both
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Recommended Waterfowl Identification Guides
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Common Goldeneye Identification
In the photo above, we can see the most obvious visual keys to Common Goldeneye identification. Let's break it down by male and female:
Male: The white spot on the face is round. The peak of the crown is in the center of the head. The majority of the body is white. The bill is robust, with a gradual incline leading into the forehead. For identification in flight, see the open-wing graphic below.
Female: The peak of the crown is more centered on its head. The forehead has a more gradual incline. The bill is usually completely dark, though it can have extensive yellow and/or orange. The bill of the female Common Goldeneye is usually larger than the Barrow's Goldeneye.
Wing Pattern: Common Goldeneye vs Barrow's Goldeneye
Common Goldeneye Range and Habitat
Common Goldeneye Can be found throughout much of the US in winter, spring, and fall. Habitat is not a great key to Common Goldeneye identification.
Common Goldeneye Range Map
The Crossley ID Guide: Waterfowl is one of my favorite reference guides for ducks!
Barrow's Goldeneye vs Common Goldeneye ID
Use the photo above and focus on the individuals on the right side of the photo.
Male: The white spot on the face is crescent-shaped. The peak of the crown is towards the forehead. The majority of the body is black, and there is a black "spur" at the front of the black. The bill is more petite, with a steep incline from the base of the bill to the forehead. For identification in flight, see the open-wing graphic below.
Female: The peak of the crown is at the forehead, and the back of the head has a steep decline. The bill is mostly orange, and there is a steep incline from the base of the bill to the forehead.
Wing Pattern: Barrow's Goldeneye vs Common Goldeneye
Barrow's Goldeneye Range and Habitat
The range of the Barrow's Goldeneye is much more restricted than the Common Goldeneye. They are found in the northcentral and northeast portions of the county during winter and spring. However, most of the population is found in the west. Habitat is not a great key to Barrow's Goldeneye identification.
Barrow's Goldeneye Range Map
Goldeneye Quiz
Test your newly acquired goldeneye skills on the following three images! Remember to check the head shape, bill size, bill shape, bill color, and back and wing pattern to make your identifications! The answers will be at the bottom of the article!
Final Thoughts on Goldeneye Identification
To make identification simple, consider two major keys in goldeneye identification:
Males: Shape of the face spot and major body color.
Barrow's Goldeneye
Crescent or apostrophe
More black than white
Common Goldeneye
Oval
More white than black
Females: Color of the bill and head shape.
Barrow's Goldeneye
Steep forehead
Orange Bill
Common Goldeneye
Gently-sloped forehead
Dark bill (usually)
Using these two major points for each sex will help simplify your goldeneye conundrum(s)!
Goldeneye Quiz Answers
Female and male Barrow's Goldeneye
There is one species, the Barrow's Goldeneye. The second bird from the right might be a Common Goldeneye, but it gives an immature male look to me.
From left to right: 10 Common Goldeneye, 2 Barrow's Goldeneye, 1 Common Goldeneye, 1 Barrow's Goldeneye
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