Common Goldeneye look-alikes
Bucephala clangula
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Common Goldeneye. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Barrow's Goldeneye
Bucephala islandica
Key differences
Males of Barrow's Goldeneye have a crescent-shaped white facial patch (vs. circular in Common Goldeneye), a more purplish-black head (vs. green-black), and more white on the flanks. Females are very similar but Barrow's often have a steeper forehead and a more extensive yellow/orange bill patch that extends further onto the culmen.
Bufflehead
Bucephala albeola
Key differences
Buffleheads are significantly smaller. Males have a large triangular white patch on the side of the head (vs. circular spot in Common Goldeneye). Females have a smaller white cheek patch. Both sexes have a smaller, more bulbous head shape.
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