Goldeneye

Goldeneye facts

Scientific name: Bucephala clangula

Family: Anatidae

Diet: Aquatic invertebrates, amphibians and small fish

Predators: Birds of prey, mink and weasels

Size: 40-48cm with a 72cm wingspan

Weight: 750g-1kg

Lifespan: Six years

About goldeneye ducks

Goldeneyes are medium-sized diving ducks. They’re adept underwater hunters, using their streamlined bodies to forage for food beneath the surface. Goldeneyes prefer shallower waters and can be found along our canals.

These ducks are relatively fast fliers. Their wings produce a characteristic whistling sound – a telltale sign of their approach. During courtship, males put on a dramatic display to win over females, emitting loud calls, and tossing their heads back before snapping them forward in a rhythmic motion.

Their scientific name – Bucephala – means ‘bull-headed’, referring to the goldeneye’s rounded head shape.

Are goldeneyes rare?

While a small breeding population resides in northern Scotland, the majority of goldeneyes here are visitors from northern Europe. Each winter, about 21,000 goldeneyes migrate to our shores.

Our resident birds mainly live on larger lakes and reservoirs.

What do goldeneye ducks look like?

The common goldeneye is a medium-sized duck with a relatively large head, a streamlined body and a short tail. They have a small and narrow bill that slopes smoothly from the head.

This handsome bird is mostly black and white with the bright yellow eyes that give it its name. Males are especially eye-catching with their glossy plumage and subtle green sheen on the heads.

Females are more understated with warm brown heads and soft grey bodies.

What do goldeneye ducklings look like?

Goldeneye ducklings have dark heads, fluffy cream-colored necks and grey-black bodies.

Where are goldeneye ducks found?

Goldeneyes prefer freshwater habitats, making them common along canals, rivers, and reservoirs from October. Our small breeding population is mostly found in northern Scotland.

Other species to look out for