Common Goldeneye
| Scientific name | Bucephala clangula |
| English name | Common Goldeneye |
| Japanese name | 頬白鴨 |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Bucephala |
| Species | clangula |
| Subspecies | --- |
| Full length | about 46cm. |
| Distribution | Middle latitudes and above in Eurasia and North America. In Japan, it is mainly found in northern Japan. |
Characteristics
A winter bird characterized by white spots on the cheeks of males. The male has a glossy deep green head and yellow iris. The back is black, the belly is white, and the beak is black. The female has a dark brown head and gray body, not as distinct as the male. The female also has a yellow beak tip. Juveniles closely resemble females, but do not have yellow beak tips.
Ecology
Breeds from spring to summer. It comes to Japan as a winter bird. Found in lakes, rivers and bays. It dives and preys on small underwater animals. They often move in groups.
Habitat
Lake Suwa Kamaguchi Water Gate
About 10 birds were swimming in a flock in the pool in front of the water gate. There were two males followed by females and juveniles. There was a female soaking wet just below the lock, foraging furiously. This individual was the only one who was separated from the herd.
Pictures
Introducing a picture of Common Goldeneye.
