American Wigeon (Anas americana)

11/24/02 The duck in the center is the American Wigeon. 
San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Riverside County, CA

LIFE LIST NOTES:

COMMON NAME: American Wigeon

SPECIES: Anas americana

FAMILY: Anatidae (Ducks, Geese & Swans)

LIFE LIST DATE:11/24/2002

LOCATION: San Jacinto Wildlife Area, Riverside County, CA

From Kaufman Focus Guide: Birds of North America:

BEHAVIOR/HABITAT: Also called "Baldpate" for male's white cap. Common, especially in the west. Flocks often graze on land near ponds, including on parks, golf courses. On deep water, sometimes steals food from coots or diving ducks when they come to the surface. 

IDENTIFYING MARKS: 19"; male has white crown stripe, green ear patch on gray head; pink chest and sides. In fall, male may be plainer, more rust colored. Big white wing patches show in flight. Female has gray head contrasting with more pinkish body. Note rather small, blue-gray bill. 

VOICE: Far-carrying whistle, whee-WHEEW-wheew, second note highest (male).