The wigeons or widgeons are a group of birds, dabbling ducks currently classified in the genus Mareca along with two other species. There are three extant species of wigeon, in addition to one recently extinct species.

What is a widgeon in English?

widgeon in American English

(ˈwɪdʒən) nounWord forms: plural (for 1) -eons or esp collectively -eon. any of several common freshwater ducks related to the mallards and teals in the genus Anas, having metallic green flight feathers, a white wing patch, and a buff or white forehead, including A.

How did wigeon get its name?

Formerly assigned to Anas, this species is classified with the other wigeons in the dabbling duck genus Mareca. ... Mareca is from the Brazilian-Portuguese word Marréco for a small duck and americana refers to America.