Thewaterfowler

Please help me identify what kind of goldeneye this is, common or barrows

Oldtimr

I would if there was a picture. A common has a white circle cheek patch, a Barrows has a white quarter moon shaped cheek patch.

Thewaterfowler

This is a hen, but how do I upload a pic form my camera roll

Oldtimr

The Barrows has more of a sharp slope from the bill to the top of the head which is flatter than the Common.

Common-- http://www.pbase.com/tgrey/image/90324789

Barrows-- https://www.flickr.com/photos/soarin...n/photostream/

It is a close call but there is a slight difference. Your profile doesn't say where you are from or saw the bird. Barrows are normally found in the North Western areas of the US and near mountainous areas.

flags

As noted, Barrows normally have a white patch on the face that isn't round, more of a teardrop shape. Common has a round white patch. First duck I ever shot was a common goldeneye drake when I was 8. My father had it mounted and I still have it 45 years later. It was my first trophy.

JW

Sent you Private Message (PM)