Velvet Scoter
NameVelvet Scoter
Common NameVelvet Scoter
Scientific NameMelanitta fusca
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)89.5
Length (cm)54.5
Weight (g)1500
Plumage DetailsAdult males are entirely velvety black with a prominent white crescent-shaped patch below the eye and a large white speculum (wing patch). The bill is bright orange with a black knob at the base. Females are duller, brownish-black, with two pale patches on the head and a less prominent white wing patch.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent outside the breeding season. Males produce soft, whistling calls, while females have a harsher, croaking vocalization.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, coastal, tundra
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeBreeds across northern Eurasia, from Scandinavia eastward through Siberia. Winters along the coasts of Europe, the Black Sea, and the Caspian Sea.
Identifying Featuresall-black plumage (male), white wing patch (speculum), orange bill with black knob (male), white crescent below eye (male), diving behavior
Description
The Velvet Scoter is a large sea duck, predominantly black in males, with a distinctive white wing patch visible in flight and at rest. These diving birds are often found in coastal marine waters during winter, feeding on benthic invertebrates.
