American wigeon
Cottontop, storm, baldpate
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Scientific Name:
Mareca americana Aquatic
- Seasons and Regulations
- Licenses/Permits
Description
Medium-sized dabbling duck with pale blue bill, dark blue-gray legs,buff washed breast and sides with white belly. Black, pointed tail. Males have a large green ear patch, white crown, and brown eyes. Female has a mottled gray head with brown eyes. Wings have a white patch above the black/green speculum, brighter in males than females.
Sound
High, squeaky whistle "whew whew whew" with front note higher than latter two. Female can also "quack"
Range and Habitat
Found throughout North America, Prefers marshes, ponds, and shallow lakes.
Behavior
Highly social, forming large groups on wintering grounds. Highly vocal species, will socialize with other species on wintering feeding grounds.
Population Status
Abundant, stable
Hunting License Information
Basic hunting license or equivalent combination license (Sportsman Paradise). Waterfowl, HIP certification (18 years old and older). Federal Duck Stamp (16 years old and older) signed across the face, if hunting WMA then WMA Access Permit.
More Information