Another ID needed

[AJH748]

When I first saw this I thought it was maybe a Pochard, but now I am not too sure as it doesn't look exactly the same.

Can anyone confirm its ID please.
It was taken at Mere Sands Wood today.



Thanks

Alan

[Dogghound]

Its a female Goldeneye.

[Ukwildlifeo]

agreed, a female goldeneye. A nice find too

[AJH748]

Thank you for the quick replies Dogghound and Ukwildlifeo.

I've seen the males before but this is the first time I have seen a female, in fact there were 2 females but I didn't see a male with them.

[Dogghound]

Are you sure the other was not a male? they look very similar to females in winter. They will be pairing up by now.

[AJH748]

I'm not sure now - I just assumed they were the same.

I only took shots of one of them

Out of interest what is the difference between the 2 plumages in winter?

[Dogghound]

The male has no orange on the bill, it has a larger looking head and often has a white patch at the front of it. Males show alot more white on their sides. Males will be showing dark green heads now too.

EDIT: Sorry thinking about it males will be quite different to females at this time of year so it should have been clear.

[AJH748]

OK thanks - I guess they were both females then as I would have recognised a male.

[thebeard]

i've only seen these very far away which is annoying, i'd love to get good views of one but they're so shy!

[caernerch]

they're a regular, have bred, at mere sands wood. originals ?? escapees from martin mere. also annual winter visitor off coast and on marine/fresh water lakes in round GB breeds central scotland and other scattered locations. lovely little bird.
regards
caernerch