Surf Scoter

Melanitta perspicillata

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Aves · Anseriformes · Anatidae

About

The surf scoter is a large sea duck native to North America. Adult males are almost entirely black with characteristic white patches on the forehead and the nape and adult females are slightly smaller and browner. Surf scoters breed in Northern Canada and Alaska and winter along the Pacific and Atlantic coasts of North America. Those diving ducks mainly feed on benthic invertebrates, mussels representing an important part of their diet.

Fun Fact

lb) and 44 cm (17 in) in length, making this the smallest species of scoter on average.

Quick Facts

Habitat

To be updated

Diet

Feed on benthic invertebrates, mussels representing an important part of their diet.

Lifespan

To be updated

Threats

Habitat Change
Human Disturbance

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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