AMERICAN COMMON GOLDENEYE
DESCRIPTION
Also called Bufflehead and Common Goldeneye, the American Common Goldeneye is a medium-sized diving duck known for its striking appearance. Males are characterized by their glossy green heads, bright yellow eyes, and white neck patches, while females are predominantly brown with a distinctive white cheek patch. This species is known for its agile swimming and diving abilities, often foraging for food underwater in lakes and rivers.
FUN FACTS
- American Common Goldeneyes are known for their unique courtship displays, which include head bobbing and rapid wing flapping
- These displays are not only a way to attract mates but also serve to establish dominance among males
- | The species has a remarkable ability to dive to depths of over 15 meters in search of food, showcasing their impressive swimming skills
- They can hold their breath for up to a minute while underwater, making them efficient foragers
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild
Average Weight0.7-1.5 kg
Average Length0.5-0.6 m
Diet TypePiscivore
Social StructureThey are typically found in pairs or small groups, especially during the breeding season.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (April-June)
- Habitat
- American Common Goldeneyes inhabit freshwater lakes, rivers, and coastal marine environments. They prefer areas with abundant vegetation and open water for foraging.
- Biomes
- Freshwater, Marine
- Native Range
- The species breeds in North America, particularly in Canada and parts of the northern United States, and migrates to the southern United States and Mexico during winter.
- Continent
- North America
- Countries
- Canada, United States, Mexico
- Diet
- The American Common Goldeneye primarily feeds on aquatic invertebrates and small fish. It dives to catch its prey, often foraging in deeper waters.
- Diet Type
- Piscivore
- Favorite Food
- aquatic invertebrates, small fish
- Social Structure
- They are typically found in pairs or small groups, especially during the breeding season.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 2-10
- Territorial
- 0
LC
CR
0.7-1.5 kg
Weight
0.5-0.6 m
Length
- Coloration
- Males have a striking black and white plumage with a green head, while females are brown with a white patch on the face.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males and females have distinctly different plumage.
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 5-10
- Sexual Maturity
- 1-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (April-June)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of American Common Goldeneyes is currently stable, with some fluctuations due to habitat changes.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 100,000-200,000
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat loss due to wetland drainage and pollution. Climate change also poses a risk to their breeding and migratory patterns.
- Predators
- Common predators include foxes, raccoons, and various birds of prey such as eagles and hawks.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They often rely on their ability to dive quickly to escape predators.
- Compatible Animals
- Other waterfowl species, such as ducks and geese
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon