The graceful Eurasian Wigeon is a sporadic visitor to North America and is generally spotted in the flocks of its American Wigeon relative. The distinctive colours of the males' buffy-cream forecrowns, rufous-brown heads, and gray bodies make them stand out. For feeding, both species dip their heads in the water with their tails up to snag underwater plant life and other food. A few times, the two wigeon species may hybridize, and the male offspring will resemble both of their parents.
Eurasian Wigeon Specificationa
Eurasian Wigeon ID
Try looking among herds of American Wigeons that are migrating or hibernating to see if you can find a Eurasian Wigeon. Instead of a gray and green head, search for a male with gray sides. Both wigeon species require areas of shallow water with aquatic plants. They can be wary because they are game birds, so it's best to stay in a moving vehicle (which can act as a blind) or use a spotting scope to observe groups. Studying the female's grayer back and browner head patterns might also be helpful.
