What kind of bird is a Wigeon? We will introduce and explain the characteristics, ecology, and habitat of this gray or brown bird that can be seen in Japan. When they fly, they can be seen in large flocks and act in groups. They can be seen mainly in Eurasia, and in winter they migrate to Europe, northern Africa, northern India, southern China, and the Korean Peninsula.
What is Wigeon? Basic Stats
The Eurasian Wigeon is a species of bird that belongs to the Anatidae family and the Mallard genus. Its English name is Eurasian Wigeon, its scientific name is Mareca penelope, and its kanji is hitorikamo. Its total length is 42-53cm, its wingspan is 68-84cm, and its weight is 500-1100g. A list of information about it is as follows:
| Japanese（和名） | ヒドリガモ |
| English（英名） | Eurasian Wigeon |
| scientific name(学名) | Mareca penelope |
| classification（分類） | Aves、 Anseriformes、 Anatidae、Mareca 鳥綱、カモ目、カモ科、マガモ属 |
| IUCN Status(保全状況) | LEAST CONCERN |
| Length（体長） | 42～53cm |
| Weight（体重） | 500～1100g |
Habitat
The Eurasian Wigeon breeds in the northern polar regions of the Eurasian continent and in Iceland, and migrates to Europe, northern Africa, India, China, the Korean Peninsula, Japan, etc. in the winter. It is also known that the breeding grounds of the closely related American Wigeon (Anas americana) are close to each other.
What are its characteristics? What kind of creature is it?
Wigeon feathers vary by sex (female and male). Males have reddish-brown heads and cream-colored crowns, while females are dark brown overall and have white underparts. The upper side of the body is gray with fine black spots and a black undertail. The beak is somewhat short, and both males and females are blue-gray with a black tip. They live in groups and prefer rivers, lakes, estuaries, inland bays, and coasts. Males make a whistling call, “Pewee.” Females make a low, muddy “Guu.”
What is their ecology?
Wigeon feeds on aquatic plants such as seaweed, seaweed, and algae. They are oviparous. They are monogamous and nest in grasslands near water and lay 7-11 eggs. The eggs are incubated for about one month before the young are born. Their lifespan in the wild is thought to be about 15 to 20 years.
Do they have any natural enemies?
Hawks and crows are natural enemies of the Wigeon.
Are Wigeons an endangered species?
Wigeons are classified as least concern, and are not endangered. They are kept in zoos and other facilities, and events are held, so look at guides and take part in them. There are also many photos and images on online pages that you can refer to. They are well-known birds. Research activities at sea on migratory birds are also underway.
Can you keep black-headed gulls as pets?
Wigeons are managed by the Ministry of the Environment under the Wildlife Protection and Management Act, and feeding them is prohibited.
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