Surf Scoter (Melanitta perspicillata)

The Surf Scoter (Melanitta perspicillata) is a striking sea duck native to North America, renowned for its bold black and white plumage and vibrant orange bill. This migratory species breeds in the remote northern regions of Canada and winters along the southern coastal waters, where it can be observed diving for mollusks and crustaceans.

🇫🇷	Macreuse à front blanc, Macreuse à lunettes
🇩🇪	Brillenente
🇲🇽	Negrón costero

Taxonomy

Order	Anseriformes
Family	Anatidae

ID and Whereabouts

The male Surf Scoter is predominantly black, distinguished by a striking white and orange pattern on its beak, and a prominent white patch on both the forehead and neck. In contrast, the female exhibits a more subdued brownish hue, complemented by a dark brown cap.

The Surf Scoter can be observed during its migratory passage along the coast of the St. Lawrence River, particularly near Tadoussac.

Location	Spring	Summer	Autumn	Winter
Parc National du Bic	x	-	-	-

"x" indicates the species was observed, while "-" indicates no observation. Lack of observation doesn't necessarily imply that the species is absent. Data is derived from our park visit journals.

Characteristics

Length	44-48cm
Weight	900-1050g
Wingspan	76-77cm
Clutch Size	6-9 eggs
Incubation	28-30 days
Fledging	55 days
Sexual Maturity	2-3 years

Explore More

📖 For more information about this species: Wikipedia Page