Watercolor portrait of Common Goldeneye (Bucephala clangula)

Common Goldeneye

Bucephala clangula
Long-distance migrant: breeds across nor… Nesting on clear, fish-bearing lakes and… Common Male Display Whistle

Learn to identify the Common Goldeneye by ear. Master the "kee-yoou kee-yoou" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“kee-yoou kee-yoou”

What the Common Goldeneye sounds like

The Common Goldeneye is a medium-sized diving duck named for its brilliant yellow eyes. Males sport crisp black-and-white plumage with a glossy green-black head and a distinctive round white cheek spot. Females are more subdued, with chocolate-brown heads, gray bodies, and orange-tipped bills. Agile underwater hunters, they dive repeatedly to capture aquatic prey, often in small, loose flocks.

“kee-yoou kee-yoou”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:A ringing two-note whistle given by displaying males in early spring, often accompanied by head-throw display. Often written as “kee-yoou kee-yoou”.
Don't confuse with:The Barrow’s Goldeneye — barrow’s has a crescent-shaped white face patch, steeper forehead, purplish gloss on head.

Where you'll hear it

Nesting on clear, fish-bearing lakes and slow rivers in the boreal forest; during migration and winter they use larger lakes, rivers, estuaries, and protected coastal bays.

Courtship begins on late wintering grounds; nests in tree cavities or nest boxes from April–June; broods leave the cavity within 24 hours of hatching. Fall migration peaks October–November; winter flocks form on ice-free waters.

Similar species

Barrow’s Goldeneye

Barrow’s has a crescent-shaped white face patch, steeper forehead, purplish gloss on head.

Bufflehead

Much smaller overall with large white head patch wrapping around the back.

Lesser Scaup

Flattened head profile without cheek spot.

Common Goldeneye sound FAQ

What does a Common Goldeneye sound like?
A ringing two-note whistle given by displaying males in early spring, often accompanied by head-throw display. Listen for the "kee-yoou kee-yoou" phrase.
How do I tell a Common Goldeneye from a Barrow’s Goldeneye by sound?
Barrow’s Goldeneye: Barrow’s has a crescent-shaped white face patch, steeper forehead, purplish gloss on head.; Wing pattern shows more black on inner wing.; Female has yellow rather than orange bill tip..
When is the best time to hear a Common Goldeneye?
Courtship begins on late wintering grounds; nests in tree cavities or nest boxes from April–June; broods leave the cavity within 24 hours of hatching. Fall migration peaks October–November; winter flocks form on ice-free waters.