The
three scoters in this section are sea ducks, wintering
on open coastal waters. White-wings are among the
heaviest and largest of all ducks.
Surf
Scoter
Like
all scoters, these birds move along our coasts in
loose flocks, stringing into irregular, wavy lines.
Drakes can be distinguished from other scoters by
two white patches on their head and bright color of
the bill. Flight is strong, direct, usually close
to the waves.
Black
Scoter
In
flight, drakes appear all black except for the flash
of the slight gray underwing and the bright yellow
swelling at the base of the upper bill. Scoters feed
on mullusks, crabs, and some fish and very little
vegetation. They are locally known as "coots".
