Greater Scaup
NameGreater Scaup
Common NameGreater Scaup
Scientific NameAythya marila
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)76
Length (cm)46.5
Weight (g)1000
Plumage DetailsAdult males have a glossy black head with a green sheen, bright yellow eyes, and a blue-gray bill with a black tip. The breast is black, the back is finely vermiculated gray, and the flanks are white. The tail and rump are black. Females are browner with a distinct white patch at the base of the bill.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a quiet duck, males may produce a soft, purring 'whew-whew' or 'scaup' call during courtship. Females emit a harsh, guttural 'arrr-arrr' or 'karr-karr' sound.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in the Arctic and subarctic regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. Winters on large freshwater lakes, estuaries, and coastal waters across temperate North America, Europe, and Asia.
Identifying Featuresgreen sheen on head (males), bright yellow eyes, blue-gray bill with black tip, white flanks, finely vermiculated gray back
Description
The Greater Scaup is a medium-sized diving duck, with males displaying a distinctive dark head with a green sheen and bright yellow eyes. They are typically found on large bodies of water, where they dive to forage for food.
