Surf Scoter
Surf Scoter
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The Surf Scoter is a large sea duck characterized by its uniquely shaped and brightly colored bill, particularly prominent in males. Males are entirely black with two distinct white patches on the head, while females are dark brown with smudgy white facial patches.
Where to spot
Breeds in northern forests and tundra across Alaska and Canada. Winters along the Pacific and Atlantic coasts of North America, and sporadically in Europe. Found predominantly in coastal marine environments, bays, and estuaries.
How to spot
Look for them on coastal bays and offshore waters. Males are distinctively all-black with white forehead and nape patches, and a large, colorful bill (orange, white, black). Females are dark brown with two smudgy white patches on the face, one near the bill and one behind the eye. They often dive for long periods.
When to spot
Most readily observed during migration and winter along coastal areas.
Where to spot
Breeds in northern forests and tundra across Alaska and Canada. Winters along the Pacific and Atlantic coasts of North America, and sporadically in Europe. Found predominantly in coastal marine environments, bays, and estuaries.
How to spot
Look for them on coastal bays and offshore waters. Males are distinctively all-black with white forehead and nape patches, and a large, colorful bill (orange, white, black). Females are dark brown with two smudgy white patches on the face, one near the bill and one behind the eye. They often dive for long periods.
When to spot
Most readily observed during migration and winter along coastal areas.
Credits:
Door Alan D. Wilson - NaturesPicsOnline, CC BY-SA 2.5, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=1630032
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Surf Scoters are highly social during winter, often forming large rafts on coastal waters and frequently diving in unison for shellfish.
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