Bird Gallery Index

American Wigeon (male) image © Helen Baines

Family: (Anatidae) Ducks, Geese, and Swans

Preferred Habitat: Lakes and marshes.

Seasonal Occurrence: Common October through April.

Notes: American Wigeons are often called "Baldpates" because of the male's white cap. Females lack the bold white and green plumage. Wigeons seem to adjust well to human presence and are often found feeding in the grass close to ponds in parks and golf courses. They sometimes steal food from coots, another common species.
- Susan Billetdeaux