Barrow's Goldeneye (Bucephala islandica), Granite Reef Recreation Area, Maricopa County

This Barrow's Goldeneye was found and photographed by James McKay on 12 January 2017

A second bird in the photo is also likely a Barrow's Goldeneye (two birds to the right of the Barrow's with a Common in between, in the last two photos), however this bird was not noted in the field and the photo is not conclusive.

Very casual winter visitor in much of Arizona away from a few specific locations on the Colorado River where they winter annually in small numbers. Potentially only the fifth record for Maricopa County.

Distinguished from Common Goldeneye by smaller and more triangular bill. Bill almost completely yellow-orange, as with many female Barrow's Goldeneyes. Steeper forehead and longer mane give this bird a much different head shape than nearby Common Goldenyes.

12 January 2017, photo by James McKay

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