About Barrow's Goldeneye
Barrow's goldeneye is a medium-sized diving duck and one of Iceland's most distinctive waterbirds. The great majority of the Icelandic breeding population is concentrated around Lake Mývatn and the River Laxá.
It dives for aquatic insects and other invertebrates and nests in cavities, including rock holes and nest boxes. Iceland supports the species' only regular breeding population in Europe.
Habitat
Lake Mývatn, River Laxá, spring-fed rivers and lakes
Diet
Aquatic insects, larvae, crustaceans, molluscs and small fish.
Nesting habitat
Cavities and crevices near spring-fed rivers and lakes.
Identification
A medium-sized diving duck. The male is black and white with a purplish sheen to the head and a white crescent-shaped facial patch.
Distribution
The great majority of the Icelandic population is concentrated around Lake Mývatn and the River Laxá.
Interesting facts
Iceland supports the only regular breeding population of Barrow's goldeneye in Europe.