Based on 5,938 research-grade iNaturalist observations in Washington, Bufflehead is most often recorded in January; in Washington it behaves like a winter visitor. It ranks #19 among birds recorded in the state in our data.
Bucephala albeola
Bufflehead in Washington by month
Bars show research-grade observations per month. They mix true seasonality with how often people are outdoors, so treat small numbers with caution.
Also seen in Washington in January

Bald Eagle

Mallard

Song Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco

Great Blue Heron
American Wigeon

Common Goldeneye

American Robin
Places to look in Washington
Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Olympic National Forest
Peace Arch Park
Colville National Forest
Mount Baker–Snoqualmie National Forest
Bellevue Botanical Garden
FAQ
When does Bufflehead appear in Washington?
Mainly November–April, with the most records in January.
How common is Bufflehead in Washington?
It ranks #19 by number of iNaturalist observations among birds in Washington (5,938 records in our sample).