Barrow's Goldeneye x Hooded Merganser

Barrow's Goldeneye x Hooded Merganser hybrid, Lake Merritt, Oakland (California, USA), 19th December 2007- copyright Doug Greenberg

(photo ID: 2080)

Goldeneye x Hooded Merganser hybrids are not infrequently reported in North America but in most cases the Goldeneye parent is a Common Goldeneye.   This Goldeneye parent of this bird is believed to be a Barrow's.  Joern has mentioned that in his experience Common Goldeneye x Hooded Merganser hybrids generally show a greenish head gloss, more white on scapulars and paler flanks.  Some individuals also have odd white markings on the head (differing from those of either parent) - but of course it may be that this is true of some Barrow's hybrids too.

This striking bird wintered at the same site for several winters and has proved quite popular: many birders have travelled to see and photograph it - Doug's photos are especially impressive!

Barrow's Goldeneye x Hooded Merganser hybrid (same bird as in photo ID 2080 above), Lake Merritt, Oakland (California, USA), 19th December 2007- copyright Doug Greenberg

(photo ID: 2079)

 Barrow's Goldeneye x Hooded Merganser hybrid (same bird as in photo IDs 2079-2080 above), Lake Merritt, Oakland (California, USA), 16th December 2007- copyright Doug Greenberg

(photo IDs: 2077-2078)

Common Goldeneye Bucephala clangula
Barrow's Goldeneye Bucephala islandica
Hooded Merganser Lophodytes cucullatus