This is my first photo of a Barrow's Goldeneye. This image is a large crop as the shot was taken hand-held from considerable distance. Note the crescent-type or tear-drop type white patch on the face. This compares to a white oval spot for the Common Goldeneye. Also note the white spots on the wings and compare them to the wings of the Common Goldeneye shown below for comparison.
Top image: Barrow's Goldeneye (male)
COMMON GOLDENEY.
This is a hand-held shot taken at 300 mm with my 70-300 VR lens. The Goldeneye was swimming with a large group of Mallards in some open water close to shore.