Barrow's Goldeneye

Overview

Barrow's Goldeneye is a medium-sized diving duck found mainly in mountainous and northern regions of North America, with a separate population in Iceland. Breeding males show a glossy purplish-black head marked by a crescent-shaped white patch in front of the eye, along with a black back interrupted by bold white spur-like stripes along the scapulars. Females closely resemble female Common Goldeneyes but often show a steeper forehead and, in some populations, a more orange bill.

Feather Identification

• Face patch shape: A crescent or teardrop-shaped white patch sits in front of the eye, distinct from the round spot of Common Goldeneye.
• Back pattern: The black back shows a row of bold, elongated white spur-like markings along the scapular feathers, more extensive than the more solidly black back of Common Goldeneye.
• Head gloss: Head feathers typically show a purplish sheen rather than the green gloss of Common Goldeneye, though lighting can affect perceived color.
• Head shape: A steeper, more abrupt forehead profile compared to the smoother, more sloped head of Common Goldeneye.
• Female comparison: Female Barrow's Goldeneye can be very similar to female Common Goldeneye; subtle differences include head shape and, regionally, bill color, making context and range important for confirmation.

Plumage Notes

Breeding males show a glossy purplish-black head, crescent-shaped white face patch, black back with bold white spur stripes, and white underparts. Females have a brown head and gray body similar to female Common Goldeneye. Eclipse males resemble females but retain some darker back feathering. The species undergoes a complete molt after breeding with a flightless period. Juveniles resemble females, and young males gradually acquire adult head and back patterning over their first couple of years.

Habitat & Range

Barrow's Goldeneye breeds primarily in mountainous regions of western North America and parts of eastern Canada, nesting in tree cavities near clear lakes and fast-flowing rivers, with an additional population breeding in Iceland. In winter, it moves to coastal bays and estuaries, particularly along the Pacific coast, as well as some large inland lakes. The species is migratory within its range, moving between higher-elevation or northern breeding sites and lower-elevation wintering waters.

Behavior & Field Notes

Barrow's Goldeneye forages by diving for aquatic invertebrates, often in swift-flowing rivers and clear mountain lakes during the breeding season. Like its close relative, it nests in tree cavities, sometimes at considerable distances from water, requiring ducklings to make an early overland journey. The species is generally seen in smaller numbers than Common Goldeneye and can be locally common on wintering coastal waters. Courtship involves similar head-throwing displays to Common Goldeneye, and flight also produces an audible wing whistle.