Bird
Bird
American Wigeon
Mareca americana
The American Wigeon is a dabbling duck that visits Trinidad's freshwater wetlands during the northern winter, males recognisable by a broad white crown patch that has earned the species the old nickname "baldpate."
The American Wigeon is a dabbling duck that visits Trinidad's freshwater wetlands during the northern winter, males recognisable by a broad white crown patch that has earned the species the old nickname "baldpate."
Identification
A medium-sized dabbling duck around 45 to 55 cm long. Males show a white crown, a dark green patch behind the eye, a pinkish-brown breast and flanks, and a pale blue-grey bill with a black tip. Females are mottled brown overall with a plainer grey head, and both sexes show a white shoulder patch in flight.
Migration
A non-breeding migrant present in Trinidad during the northern winter, having bred on lakes and wetlands across Canada and the northern United States. It winters in flocks throughout the Caribbean and Central America, and is absent from Trinidad outside this non-breeding season.
Status in T&T
An uncommon non-breeding visitor to freshwater wetlands and swamps in Trinidad. Not considered threatened, and it is protected as a migratory species under the Conservation of Wildlife Act.
