ExploreBirds

Surf Scoter

Melanitta perspicillata

The Surf Scoter is a colorful duck that loves to dive for food in the ocean. With its bold black and white feathers, it looks very unique and is often seen in coastal areas during winter.

Habitat: Coastal areas

Appearance

The Surf Scoter is a large sea duck. Males are striking all-black with two crisp white patches on the nape and forehead, complemented by a massive, multi-colored bill. Females are dusky brown with subtle pale patches on their cheeks. Their unique bill shape makes them visually distinctive.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderAnseriformesFamilyAnatidaeGenusMelanitta
Surf Scoter
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Surf Scoter

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Ducklings are super independent, leaving the nest almost immediately after hatching.

Their scientific name *perspicillata* means 'spectacled', referring to eye markings!

They form huge flocks, called rafts, of thousands on the ocean during winter!

They nest surprisingly far inland, in the boreal forests near freshwater ponds.

Special abilities

Ability

Underwater Explorer

Surf Scoters can dive over 60 feet deep because of their dense bones and powerful legs that propel them, finding food on the ocean floor.

Ability

Shell Crusher

Surf Scoters have a strong, specially adapted bill that helps them crush the hard shells of clams and mussels, making them easy to eat.

Ability

Saltwater Sipper

Surf Scoters have special glands near their eyes that help them drink saltwater, removing the extra salt from their bodies.

Measurements & details

Length
45-56 cm
Wingspan
76-85 cm
Weight
0.85-1.2 kg
Lifespan
9-20 years
Top Speed
80 km/h
Clutch Size
5-9
Incubation
28-32 days
Migration Distance
4000 km

Diet & Feeding

These sea ducks mostly dive to the bottom of the ocean to gobble up tasty clams and mussels!

Age differences: Young ducklings eat more insect larvae and small crustaceans, changing to shellfish as they grow.

Primary Foods

  • Mussels
  • Clams
  • Marine worms
  • Small crustaceans
  • Small fish

Foraging Method

  • Pursuit

Ecological connections

eaten by

Common Mussel

Mytilus edulis

A key food source in coastal habitats.

eaten by

Soft-shell Clam

Mya arenaria

Dug from the seafloor, providing essential energy.

eats

Bald Eagle

Haliaeetus leucocephalus

Preys on vulnerable adults or juveniles.

eats

Red Fox

Vulpes vulpes

Often targets nests, eggs, and flightless ducklings.

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Always watch birds from a distance and do not try to touch them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Surf Scoter?

45-56 cm

What is Surf Scoter's wingspan?

76-85 cm

How much does Surf Scoter weigh?

0.85-1.2 kg

How long does Surf Scoter live?

9-20 years

How fast can Surf Scoter move?

80 km/h

What does Surf Scoter eat?

These sea ducks mostly dive to the bottom of the ocean to gobble up tasty clams and mussels!

Where is Surf Scoter usually found?

Coastal areas

How does Surf Scoter hunt?

Pursuit

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Where to spot

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