General Description: Common Goldeneyes (Bucephala clangula) are sexually dimorphic pond ducks that often winter in coastal areas. In both genders, the bill is long, and the eyes are golden yellow.

In males, the head is black with a bit of green gloss (sometimes purple) and a large, round white spot between the eye and bill. The back is black, the wings are white with black lines, and the front and sides are white. The bill is black.

In females, the head is brown and puffy. The back, wings, and sides are mottled gray-brown and white, and the front and neck are white. The bill is black with a yellow tip.

Taxonomy: Anseriformes, Anatidae, Anatinae.

Favored Habitat: Inland lakes and rivers in northern forests during the breeding season (nesting in tree cavities), and sheltered coastal areas, inland lakes, and large rivers during winter.

Where to Find: Common Goldeneye breed in the great northern forests, then fly south to spend the winter throughout the US and northern Mexico. They are uncommon around Las Vegas during winter, but keep an eye out when birding at the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve, Boulder Beach at Lake Mead NRA, the Pahranagat Valley, and the Overton Wildlife Management Area.

Comments: Goldeneyes feed on aquatic invertebrates, vegetation, and any other little thing they can catch.