Common Scoter vs Goosander

In short

The Common Scoter and Goosander are both waterfowl but differ significantly in appearance and habitat. The Common Scoter is a sea duck with a distinctive sooty black plumage in males, while the Goosander, also known as the Common Merganser, is a freshwater duck with a sleek, pointed profile and a striking white body with a dark head in males.

Identification tips

1. Bill Shape: Common Scoters have a more rounded bill with a yellow patch, while Goosanders have a long, narrow, serrated bill. 2. Plumage: Look for the all-black male Common Scoter versus the white-bodied male Goosander with a dark head. 3. Habitat: Scoters are more likely at sea; Goosanders are found on freshwater. 4. Behavior: Scoters form large sea flocks; Goosanders are more solitary or in small groups on rivers and lakes.

Size

The Common Scoter is generally smaller and more compact than the Goosander, which has a longer, more streamlined body and a pointed profile.

Plumage

Male Common Scoters are uniformly sooty black with a yellow patch on the bill, while female Scoters are dark brown with paler underparts. In contrast, male Goosanders have a white body with a dark green head, and females have a gray body with a reddish-brown head and a white throat patch.

Behaviour

Common Scoters are typically seen in large flocks at sea, diving for mollusks, while Goosanders are often found in smaller groups or pairs on freshwater bodies, diving for fish.

Habitat

Common Scoters are primarily sea ducks, found in coastal and marine environments, whereas Goosanders prefer freshwater habitats such as rivers and lakes, especially during the breeding season.

Voice

Common Scoters are usually silent but may produce thin, piping whistles. Goosanders are also generally quiet but can make low croaks and whistles, especially during courtship.