American Wigeon
photo by Phil Swanson
Anas americana
L 19″ (48 cm).
Song or calls:
Listen (NGPC audio)
Softly whistled “wheew-whew.”
Description: Body brown, head grayish, with a white crown and green face patch. Green speculum. Flashing white forewing distinguishes species. Female has finely flecked grayish head and drab brown body.
Habitat: Migration – sometimes found on large lakes or reservoirs. Breeding – marshes or lakes with food near or at the surface, especially those that have adjacent sedge meadows and partly wooded areas nearby.
Where in Nebraska: Common, locally abundant spring and fall migrant statewide. Uncommon regular breeder in north-central and north-west Nebraska. Uncommon casual winter visitor throughout the state.
Nebraska Seasons: Best time for viewing American Wigeons is in late May in south-central Nebraska.
Fun Facts: American Wigeons have a diet that consists of the most plant material than any other dabbling duck.
Additional Information: Commonly called a Baldpate due to the white crown.