Subject: Cream Cheeked American Widgeon
Date: Jan 11 16:02:53 1998
From: Michael Kennedy - MrKennedy at bc.sympatico.ca


Hello All:

I'm writing to request quick (or lengthy) feedback concerning a male
American Widgeon visiting a local pond.

The bird in question is unique to me because the cheeks below the green
swatch which covers the eyes are a smooth and solid cream colour. This
extension of cream makes it look as if the bald pate has flowed over the
bird's forehead and down to the top of his chest.

The separation between the cream colour and the back of the neck, the
top of the chest, and the bill is so sharp that it appears to be marked
by a black line.

There does not appear to be anything else remarkable about this bird.
The flanks are the rusty brown of the other widgeons in the pond, and,
except for the Eurasian x American Hybrid also at the pond, there is
nothing to suggest that the bird would be anything but a full American
Widgeon.

My question then - can anyone tell me if they have observed a similar
bird, or if this bird might be representative of a regular colour
variation for the species?

"Thanks" to all who take the time to read this.



Michael Kennedy
Victoria B.C.


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