Sea Duck Joint Venture

A Conservation Partnership under the North American Waterfowl Management Plan

Sea Duck Joint Venture

Sea Duck Joint Venture

Black Scoter

Melanitta americana

The black scoter is a medium-sized sea duck approximately 43–49 cm (17–19 in) long. Males are slightly larger than females and weigh 980– 1100 grams (2.2–2.4 lb). Males are solid black and have a yellow knob on their relatively small bill, whereas females are dark brown with a pale cheek patch and a dark crown. They retain the same plumage year-round. In flight, the undersides of their wings flash silvery gray in contrast to their dark bodies. Their wings make a whistling noise in flight. Males are very vocal and make a continuous mellow, plaintive whistling sound. Females make a low growling sound during courtship.

Sea Duck Information Series fact sheet [PDF]

Black Scoter Species Knowledge Summary and Information Needs [PDF]

Aerial Identification video

Black Scoter Aging Guide

Black Scoter Photo Gallery

Black Scoter Range Map

Black Scoter Range Map

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Mission

The Sea Duck Joint Venture promotes the conservation of all North American sea ducks through partnerships by providing greater knowledge and understanding for effective population and habitat conservation and management.