Both hens and drakes have an extensive white patch in front of the speculum. The bright white forewing, white belly, and white forehead are good distinguishing features of drakes. Drakes whistle, and hens call with a series of low quacks. Wigeons travel in small flocks, flying fast and irregularly, often with many twists and turns. Their green speculum, pastel blue forewing, and oversized bill are distinctive features.
Males have a green head, white breast, and rusty-colored sides.
Drakes have a distinctive took-took call, and the hens call with a series of weak quacks. Flight is usually fast, steady, and direct. They are all white with black wing tips. Both travel together, often in large flocks numbering in the thousands. There are several races of Canada geese that vary in weight from three to 12 pounds.