Velvet Scoter
Melanitta fusca
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<birdfyi-bird slug="melanitta-fusca"></birdfyi-bird>About
A large sea duck (~1.6 kg) of the family Anatidae, males black with a white wing patch and yellow-sided bill. Breeds on lakes and rivers of northern Eurasia; winters on coastal waters of Europe. Forages by diving for mollusks and crustaceans. Vulnerable due to significant population declines attributed to hunting pressure and habitat degradation.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 51.8 cm | 20.4 in |
| Weight | 1635.1666666666667 g | 57.68 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Male is jet black overall with a small white teardrop below eye and white speculum visible in flight; yellow-sided bill with black knob at base. Female is dark brown with two whitish facial spots.
Habitat & Range
Geographic Range
Breeds in boreal forests of northern Europe and western Siberia. Winters on coasts of northwestern Europe, the Black Sea, and Caspian Sea.
Diet & Feeding
Dives for mussels, cockles, and crustaceans in coastal and brackish waters. Freshwater insects taken on breeding grounds.
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Nest type: SC. Incubation: 27-28 days. Fledging: 50-55 days.
Clutch Size
7-9
Sound
Song
Male emits a low, melodious whistled note; female produces a guttural, rasping call. The male's soft whistle contrasts with the female's harsh, buzzy alarm call on European coasts.
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes (Waterfowl) |
| Family | Anatidae (Ducks, Geese & Swans) |
| Genus | Melanitta |
| Species | Melanitta fusca |
Distribution
Velvet Scoter has been recorded in 5 countries.
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External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Velvet Scoter eat?
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Is the Velvet Scoter endangered?
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What order and family does the Velvet Scoter belong to?
Similar Birds
Other species in the Anatidae family