Overview
It is characterised by its bulky shape and large bill. It is the largest scoter. The male is all black, except for white around the eye and a white speculum. It has a bulbous yellow bill with a black base. The females are brown birds with two pale patches on each side of the head and white wing patches.
Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Bird
- Family
- Anatidae
- Genus
- Melanitta
- Species
- fusca
Habitat
Coastal waters.
Diet
This duck dives for crustaceans and molluscs.
Behavior
It forms large flocks on suitable coastal waters. These are tightly packed, and the birds tend to take off together. The lined nest is built on the ground close to the sea, lakes or rivers, in woodland or tundra, and typically contains 7–9 eggs.
Hunting
Unknown.
Conservation Status
Listed as Vulnerableby IUCN.