Wigeon song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Wigeon, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

Males have a distinctive, clear, whistling call, often described as 'whee-oo' or 'wee-ooo', which gives them their common name. This call is often repeated and can be heard from a distance.

Calls

Females have a low, growling 'arrr' or 'karr' call, much less conspicuous than the male's whistle. Alarm calls are similar but more emphatic.

When they vocalize

Males call frequently during courtship and throughout the breeding season. Both sexes vocalize during flight and when disturbed. The male's whistle is a characteristic sound of wintering wetlands.

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