Bufflehead vs Barrow's Goldeneye

Bufflehead and Barrow's Goldeneye are both small diving ducks, but they can be distinguished by size, head shape, and plumage details. Buffleheads are smaller with a distinctive puffy head and a striking white patch on the male's head, while Barrow's Goldeneye is larger with a more angular head and a crescent-shaped white patch on the male's face.

Look for the size difference first; Buffleheads are noticeably smaller. Check the head shape and white markings: Buffleheads have a puffy head with a large white patch, while Barrow's Goldeneyes have an angular head with a crescent-shaped white patch. In females, note the white cheek patch in Buffleheads versus the white collar in Barrow's Goldeneyes.

Bufflehead is smaller than Barrow's Goldeneye, with a more compact body and shorter neck.

Male Buffleheads have a large white patch on the back of the head, while male Barrow's Goldeneyes have a crescent-shaped white patch on the face. Female Buffleheads are mostly gray-brown with a small white cheek patch, whereas female Barrow's Goldeneyes have a more pronounced white collar around the neck.

Both species are diving ducks, but Buffleheads are more likely to be seen in small groups or pairs, while Barrow's Goldeneyes may form larger flocks.

Buffleheads prefer smaller ponds and lakes, often in wooded areas, while Barrow's Goldeneyes are more commonly found on larger lakes and coastal waters.

Vocalizations are not a primary distinguishing feature between these species in the field.