Common Goldeneye

Common goldeneyes are named for exactly what you'd expect — a bright, golden-yellow eye. Drakes run mostly white with a dark, glossy green head and a round white spot in front of the eye; hens carry a chocolate-brown head over a grayish body. They're strong, fast fliers, and their wings produce a distinctive whistling sound overhead that's earned the species the nickname "whistler." Goldeneyes nest in tree cavities near water and favor larger lakes, rivers, and reservoirs, especially through the coldest stretches of winter.