Barrow's goldeneye is a medium-sized sea duck of the genus Bucephala, the goldeneyes. This bird was named after Sir John Barrow. The genus name is derived from Ancient Greek boukephalos, "bullheaded", from bous, "bull" and kephale, "head", a reference to the bulbous head shape of the bufflehead. The species name islandica means Iceland.
Region
Northwestern North America and Iceland
Typical Environment
Breeds on clear, fish-poor lakes and ponds in boreal forest, subalpine, and subarctic zones of western North America, with an isolated population in Iceland and a small, localized population in eastern Canada. In winter it moves to ice-free coastal waters, estuaries, sheltered bays, and large inland lakes. It favors habitats with abundant aquatic invertebrates and nearby mature trees or cliffs with cavities for nesting. Rocky shorelines and kelp-fringed bays are typical winter haunts.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Barrow's goldeneye is a medium-sized diving sea duck named after Sir John Barrow. The genus name Bucephala derives from Greek for 'bull-headed,' referring to the species' chunky, domed head; the species name islandica highlights its strong link to Iceland. Males have a distinctive crescent-shaped white patch before the eye and a steep forehead that helps distinguish them from the Common Goldeneye. They readily use nest boxes placed near clear lakes and forested wetlands.
Egg, Collection Museum Wiesbaden
Temperament
wary and alert
Flight Pattern
strong flier with rapid wingbeats and audible wing whistle
Social Behavior
Pairs form on wintering grounds and during spring migration with elaborate head-throw displays. They are cavity nesters, using tree holes, cliffs, or nest boxes near water; the female incubates while the male departs shortly after laying begins. Hens show strong nest-site fidelity and ducklings leave the nest soon after hatching to feed themselves.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Generally quiet; males give soft squeaks and low croaks during courtship, accompanied by conspicuous head-throw displays. Wingbeats produce a clear whistling sound in flight. Females utter harsher quacks and grating calls when alarmed.
