Common Scoter
NameCommon Scoter
Common NameCommon Scoter
Scientific NameMelanitta nigra
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)84.5
Length (cm)49
Weight (g)1075
Plumage DetailsAdult males are entirely glossy black with a prominent yellow-orange patch or knob on the upper mandible of the bill. Females are duller, brownish-black with paler cheeks and a dark cap, lacking the prominent bill knob.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a silent bird, but males produce a soft, whistling 'poo-ee' sound, particularly during courtship. Females have a harsh, croaking call.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, coastal, tundra
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in northern Europe and Asia, primarily on freshwater lakes and tundra pools. Winters along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of Europe, North Africa, and Asia, often in large flocks.
Identifying FeaturesAll-black plumage (male), Prominent yellow-orange bill knob (male), Diving behavior, Coastal marine habitat in winter, Brownish-black plumage with pale cheeks (female)
Description
The Common Scoter is a medium-sized sea duck, with males being entirely black and featuring a distinctive yellow-orange knob on their bill. These ducks are expert divers, foraging for mollusks and other invertebrates in coastal waters during winter and freshwater bodies during breeding season.
