Surf Scoter vs Velvet Scoter

In short

The Surf Scoter and Velvet Scoter are both large diving ducks, but the Surf Scoter male is easily identified by its distinctive white patches on the head and multicolored bill. Females and immatures of both species can be trickier to separate, but the Surf Scoter typically has a more flattened head profile and a heavier bill.

Identification tips

• Male Surf Scoter: Look for white patches on the forehead and nape and a multicolored bill.
• Female Surf Scoter: Note the paler face with whitish cheek patches and a whitish nape patch.
• Velvet Scoter in flight: Look for the white wing patch, absent in Surf Scoter.
• Head profile: Surf Scoter has a more flattened head profile and heavier bill compared to Velvet Scoter.

Size

Both species are large, but the Surf Scoter is slightly smaller than the Velvet Scoter.

Plumage

The male Surf Scoter is velvety black with white patches on the forehead and nape, and a multicolored bill. The Velvet Scoter male is mostly black with a white wing patch visible in flight. Female Surf Scoters have a paler face with whitish patches on the cheeks and nape, while Velvet Scoter females are darker with less distinct facial markings.

Behaviour

Both species are diving ducks and exhibit similar foraging behaviors, often diving for mollusks and crustaceans.

Habitat

Both species are found in coastal marine environments during the winter, but the Velvet Scoter is more commonly found in Europe and Asia, while the Surf Scoter is primarily North American.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a primary distinguishing feature in the field for these species.