American Wigeon (Anas americana)

Sighting Ref :

IB81652

Sighting Date :

06 Sept 15

Common Name :

American Wigeon

Scientific Name :

Anas americana

Location :

Tacumshin

County :

Wexford

Number Seen :

Principal Observer(s) :

Paul Kelly, Killian Mullarney Not Specified

Reported By :

Not Specified

Comments :

10:00 eclipse male. An excellent find by Paul Kelly, who drew my attention to the bird. Best identified by a combination of subtle differences from the numerous European Wigeon alongside it: distinctly larger headed and slightly bulkier than Wigeon; when visible, extensive white on side of body (forewing patch showing between flank and scapulars) and very pale grey bill indicative of adult male (in eclipse plumage) but head duller, brownish-grey rather than the more rufous/chestnut head colour of eclipse male Wigeon;darker patch around eye forming part of subtle broad band from eye to nape, but this feature not yet well developed and very light/angle dependent; slightly longer tailed than Wigeon. Apparently pure white axilleries visible when bird momentarily raised both wings above its back, but beware that European Wigeon can often appear to have white axillaries, especially in strong sunshine.

Status :

See IRBC Appendix 2

Photos :