Black Scoter (Melanitta americana)
A large sea duck, characterized by its bulky shape and large bill. The species breeds in the far North of Canada, in Labrador and Newfoundland and migrates into more moderate regions South. Dives for crustacean and mollusks.
Common Names
| 🇨🇦 | Black Scoter, American Scoter |
| 🇫🇷 | Macreuse noire, Macreuse américaine |
| 🇩🇪 | Melanitta americana |
| 🇲🇽 | Negrón americano |
Taxonomy
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
Characteristics
| Length | 43-55cm |
| Weight | 950g |
| Wingspan | 71cm |
| Clutch Size | 5-7 eggs |
| Incubation | 27-31 days |
| Fledging | 6-7 weeks |
| Sexual Maturity | 2-3 years |
Explore More
📖 Wikipedia Page: For more information about this species.
Identification and Whereabouts
Drake is completely black with a bulky yellow beak. Female is brown with pale cheeks.
I observed this species in May at the coast in Tadoussac.
All content on this page — including photos, videos, and field audio recordings — was created by Karl-Heinz Müller, a Montréal-based wildlife filmmaker, sound recordist, and photographer. Founder of MUUUH and Québec Sauvage, he has spent over a decade documenting Canada’s natural habitats through immersive soundscapes and wildlife films. Learn more about Karl-Heinz
Last updated: 2024-12-31