The black scoter or American scoter is a large sea duck, 43 to 49 cm in length. The genus name is derived from Ancient Greek melas "black" and netta "duck". The species name is from the Latin for "American".
Region
Arctic and temperate North America
Typical Environment
Breeds across coastal Alaska and the boreal to subarctic zones of northern Canada, nesting near shallow freshwater lakes, ponds, and tundra wetlands. In nonbreeding seasons it moves to marine environments along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of North America. Wintering flocks favor protected bays, estuaries, and nearshore waters with sandy or soft bottoms. Occasional vagrants appear farther afield along other coastlines.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The black scoter, also called the American scoter, is a sturdy sea duck best recognized by the male’s all-black plumage and bright orange-yellow knobbed bill. In winter it forms large, tightly packed rafts just offshore, where it dives repeatedly for shellfish. On the breeding grounds of Alaska and northern Canada, it shifts to freshwater lakes and ponds. Distinguishing it from other scoters often hinges on the male’s bill color and the female’s pale cheek patches.
Female Black Scoter photographed in Ottawa, Ontario
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
fast direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Outside the breeding season it gathers in large flocks, often forming dense rafts on coastal waters. Courtship displays occur on the water, with head-throws and vocalizations. Nests are on the ground, usually concealed in vegetation near freshwater, and the female incubates while the male departs early in the season.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Generally quiet at sea, but males give mellow, whistling and piping notes during courtship. Females produce harsher, rasping quacks, particularly near the nest or when alarmed.
Plumage
Males are uniformly velvety black; females are chocolate-brown with a slightly paler throat and conspicuous pale cheek patches.
Diet
In winter it feeds mainly on marine invertebrates such as mussels, clams, snails, and small crustaceans, which it obtains by diving to the bottom. On breeding lakes it takes aquatic insect larvae, small mollusks, and other invertebrates, with minor plant material. It can dive for extended periods and uses a strong bill to crush shells.
Preferred Environment
Forages in shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and protected bays over sandy or soft substrates with abundant bivalves. On the breeding grounds, it feeds along the margins of freshwater ponds and lakes.
