Common Scoter

Overview

The common scoter (Melanitta nigra) is a large sea duck that breeds over the far north of Europe and the Palearctic east to the Olenyok River. It is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Bulky shape with a large bill.
• Males are all black with a bulbous bill showing some yellow coloration around the nostrils.
• Females are brown with pale cheeks.
• Distinguished from other scoters by the lack of white on the drake and more extensive pale areas on the female.

Habitat

This species winters in temperate zones on the coasts of Europe as far south as Morocco, often forming large, tightly packed flocks on suitable coastal waters. Nesting occurs on the ground close to the sea, lakes, or rivers in woodland or tundra environments.

Diet

The common scoter dives for crustaceans and molluscs, and also consumes aquatic insects and small fish when on fresh water.

Did you know?

In parts of France during the nineteenth century and earlier, the common scoter was accepted by the Roman Catholic Church as a substitute for fish during the Friday fast.