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 'whee-oo' or 'wee-yoo' call, often repeated. This is one of the most characteristic sounds of winter wetlands in their range.

Calls

Females have a low, growling 'arrr' or 'karr' call, sometimes described as a purring sound. Alarm calls are similar but more emphatic.

When they vocalize

Males call frequently during the breeding season and throughout the winter, especially when in flocks. Females call less often.

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