Ivan Kozlov (Russian, B. 1937) "Common Goldeneye" Signed lower right. Original Watercolor painting on Paper. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on a First Day Cover for a Russia Duck stamp issued July 1, 1990. Like the Mallard, the hardy Common Goldeneye winters as far north as possible, usually on coastal bays, large lakes, impoundments and rivers. In fact, where waters stay icefree, many Goldeneyes never migrate at all. Where natural hot springs and geysers are present, for example, flocks stay year round, wintering on stretches of river kept open by warm water. When forced to migrate by extremely cold temperatures, the Goldeneye begins its journey in late fall, flying in small, fast flocks that are often identified by the whistling of rapidly beating wings. This distinctive sound gives rise to the bird's widespread nickname, the Whistler. In the spring, these ducks arrive early at their breeding grounds, appearing with the first openings in the ice of preferred lakes and streams. While searching for nest sites, Goldeneyes scatter across vast evergreen forests hunting for the appropriate spots to settle in for the season. A cavity in a rotten hardwood tree by a marsh usually serves as a nest. There, the hen wraps eight to twelve greenish eggs in a blanket of soft, insulating down. This lovely hen has a charcoal body, crisp white breast, belly and wing markings and a rich brown head. Even more colorful, the predominantly black and white Goldeneye drake sports bold, striking markings -- a glistening dark green head and a striking white eye patch compliment his white chest, belly and wing patches. Image Size: 6.75 x 5.75 in. Overall Size: 9.25 x 7.75 in. Unframed. (B12460)