Common Goldeneye

The Common Goldeneye is a sleek diving duck well known across Washington waters. Drakes are easily identified by their round white facial patch set against a dark green head and their piercing yellow eyes, while hens are gray-bodied with brown heads. Like their Barrow’s cousins, Common Goldeneyes are quick, powerful fliers that often fly low over the water in tight flocks. In Puget Sound and inland rivers, they are regular winter visitors, diving for aquatic invertebrates and small fish.

In Washington, Common Goldeneyes are included under general sea duck hunting regulations, with bag limits that allow for multiple opportunities each day. Along with the barrow's goldeneye, there is a three-bird limit of goldeneye per day between the common and barrow's. Their wary nature, rapid flight, and whistling wings make them stand out as they fly, providing a true test of skill for waterfowlers. Because they are more widely distributed than Barrow’s, Common Goldeneyes are often considered a staple species for hunters in the region. Successfully decoying and harvesting a drake, with its bold plumage and signature white cheek patch, is a highlight for many Puget Sound hunts.