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Natural wonder: Winter Wigeons hit the Valley

By Pete Zimowsky - pzimowsky@idahostatesman.com

Published: 11/21/08


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Wigeons show up in large groups in Boise’s parks and around local ponds in November. Their presence signals the fall and winter migration of waterfowl from the north.

Wigeons like to spend the winter in Boise because of the food supply. They are like little lawn mowers as they graze on the parks’ grass. You can now see groups of wigeons grazing near ParkCenter Pond, Julia Davis Pond, the ponds in Ann Morrison Park and those at Kathryn Albertson Park.

This photo was taken with a flash at dusk in Ann Morrison Park. Wigeons really start buzzing around town at around 5 p.m. looking for a gathering place and for other dinner guests.

You can’t miss wigeons. They are the little duck with the white crown and green eye patch. So, enjoy watching them while you can.

By the way, their call is a squeaking whistle, like a squeak toy. If you want to hear a wigeon, check out www.birds.cornell.edu/AllAboutBirds and search for American wigeon.

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