Goldeneye

[ebenezer]

I know this is a goldeneye, but the plumage seems odd; is it in transition from winter to spring, youth to adulthood, or is it just a maverick?

Andrew

[RoyW__]

It's a first winter male moulting into adult plumage.

[PeterB]

Nice spot Andrew.

Can they fly normally during this transition?

[RoyW__]

Originally Posted by PeterB

Can they fly normally during this transition?

Yes. This is a partial moult of head and body feathers only, the flight feathers aren't moulted at this time.

[Twitcheruth]

Nice shot Andrew and good explanation Roy......I'd have had it as a female.