From Opus

Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus

Photo by BigSkyBirds
Photo taken: Benton Lake NWR, MT, U.S.A.

[edit] Identification

Male as in photo. Females are smaller and browner overall, except for a yellow throat and upper breast. Lower breast streaked with white. Lacks white wing patches.

[edit] Distribution

Breeding range extends from B.C. to the Great Lakes region, and throughout the western and central U.S. Resident populations can be found along the U.S. west coast. Winter in the southern U.S. and Mexico.

[edit] Taxonomy

This is a monotypic species.

[edit] Habitat

Freshwater marches and lakes with reeds are areas for nesting and roosting, during fouraging often spreads into farmland.

[edit] Behaviour

Loud, with a variety of calls.

[edit] External Links