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American Wigeon
The American Wigeon (*Mareca americana*) is a dabbling duck found across North America. Known for its distinctive whistling call and the male's striking green eye patch and white forehead, it plays an important role in wetland ecosystems. It feeds primarily on vegetation and is a key indicator species for the health of these habitats. It is sometimes referred to as a "baldpate" due to the white crown on the male.
42-59 cm
Length
76-91 cm
Wingspan
Least Concern
Conservation Status
Distribution
Breeds across Alaska, Canada, and the northern United States. Winters in the southern United States, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. Occasional vagrant to Europe. Migrates in large flocks along established flyways.
Lifespan
Up to 21 years in the wild, though typically much shorter (average 3-5 years).
American Wigeon's Habitat
Habitat Types
Freshwater marshes, Lakes, Ponds, Bays, Estuaries, Flooded fields
Climate Zones
Temperate, Subarctic, Tropical (during winter)
Adaptations
This species has a relatively short bill well-suited for grazing on vegetation. They are also known to steal food from other diving ducks, a behavior known as kleptoparasitism.
Variations
No recognized subspecies.
Appearance
Breeding Plumage
Breeding males have a white crown and forehead, a green eye patch, and a pinkish-brown breast. Non-breeding males (eclipse plumage) are more mottled brown. Females are generally mottled brown year-round.
Seasonal Feather Changes
Males molt into eclipse plumage after breeding, resembling females. They regain breeding plumage in the fall.
Sex Based Plumage Differences
Significant. Males have distinctive breeding plumage, while females are more cryptic.
Notable Features
White crown and forehead on breeding males (giving rise to the name "baldpate")., Green eye patch on breeding males., White shoulder patch visible in flight.
Diet and Feeding
Primary Foods
Aquatic plants, Seeds, Grasses, Sedges, Algae, Some invertebrates (especially during breeding)
Foraging Behavior
Primarily grazes on vegetation in shallow water or on land. Also dabbles, tipping its body forward to reach submerged plants. Known to steal food from diving ducks.
Specializations
Short bill adapted for grazing.
Seasonal Diet Variations
Diet shifts slightly depending on food availability. May consume more invertebrates during the breeding season to meet increased protein requirements.
Behavior
Social Structure
Gregarious, especially outside of the breeding season. Forms large flocks during migration and winter.
Communication
Whistling calls by males (a distinctive "whee-whee-whew")., Quacking calls by females., Visual displays during courtship.
Migration
Migrates long distances between breeding and wintering grounds. Follows established flyways, often traveling in mixed flocks with other duck species.
Territorial or Group Behaviors
Males defend territories during the breeding season. Outside of breeding, they are highly social and form large flocks.
Conservation
Threats
Habitat loss and degradation (wetlands), Hunting (regulated), Lead poisoning (from ingestion of lead shot), Climate change (affecting breeding and wintering habitats)
Protection Programs
North American Waterfowl Management Plan, Wetlands conservation programs, Migratory Bird Treaty Act
Local National Laws
Protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Population Trend
Stable
Population Estimates
Estimated at several million individuals.
Interesting Facts
American Wigeons are known for their kleptoparasitic behavior.
They frequently steal food from other ducks, especially diving ducks like coots and Redheads, when they surface with vegetation.
The male American Wigeon's call is a distinctive three-note whistle.
This is unlike the typical "quack" of many other duck species.
They are primarily vegetarian.
Unlike many other dabbling ducks, they consume a higher proportion of plant matter.
Faqs about American Wigeon
What is a 'baldpate'?
Baldpate is another common name for the American Wigeon, referring to the male's white crown.
Do American Wigeons mate for life?
No, they typically form new pair bonds each breeding season.
Are American Wigeons hunted?
Yes, they are a popular game bird, but hunting is regulated to ensure sustainable populations.
How can I differentiate between a male and female American Wigeon?
Breeding males are easily identified by their white crown, green eye patch, and pinkish breast. Females, and non-breeding males, are mottled brown, but females can often be distinguished by their relatively rounded head shape and bluish bill with a black tip.
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