January 22nd 2007. Wellfleet Harbor, Cape Cod, MA. Barrow's Goldeneye. Bucephala islandica. First-winter male. We first spotted this bird from Indian Cove in Wellfleet Harbor and drove around to the harbor wharf to get better looks. Unfortunately it was very mobile, which combined with the extreme cold made it difficult to get some decent images. The facial crescent was fairly well developed but the head shape was perhaps the most distinctive on this bird. Frequent direct comparisons with Common Goldeneyes in the harbor made for a relatively straight forward identification. Images taken using Canon Powershot A540 through Swarovski HD Telescope. |
 Barrow's Goldeneye. Bucephala islandica. First-winter male amongst Buffleheads. Note steep forehead and bulging mane.  Barrow's Goldeneye. Bucephala islandica. First-winter male (right) with Common Goldeneyes and Buffleheads. Compare the head shape with the male Common Goldeneye facing left.  Barrow's Goldeneye. Bucephala islandica. First-winter male. Developing facial crescent combined with rather small bill and distinctive head shape. Note the dark spur from the upperparts onto the side of the body.  |