White-winged Scoter vs Black Scoter

In short

The White-winged Scoter and Black Scoter are both sea ducks, but they can be distinguished by key features. The White-winged Scoter has a distinctive white patch on its wings, visible in flight, while the Black Scoter lacks this feature. Males of both species differ in bill color, with the White-winged Scoter having a more pronounced knob at the base of the bill.

Identification tips

• Look for the white wing patch on the White-winged Scoter in flight.
• Check the bill: White-winged Scoters have a more pronounced knob at the base, while Black Scoters have a yellow-orange knob.
• Listen for vocalizations: Black Scoters are more vocal with a distinctive whistling.
• Observe flock behavior: Black Scoters often form large, monospecific flocks.

Size

Both species are similar in size, with the White-winged Scoter being slightly larger and bulkier than the Black Scoter.

Plumage

The White-winged Scoter has a white wing patch that is visible in flight, while the Black Scoter is uniformly dark without this patch. Adult male White-winged Scoters have a white comma-shaped mark around the eye, whereas male Black Scoters have a more uniform black plumage with a yellow-orange knob on the bill.

Behaviour

Both species dive for food and are often seen in coastal waters. The White-winged Scoter tends to fly in lines low over the water, while the Black Scoter often forms large monospecific flocks during winter.

Habitat

White-winged Scoters are often found in open coastal environments, bays, and inlets, while Black Scoters prefer shallow coastal waters and are often seen in large concentrations at molting sites.

Voice

The Black Scoter is more vocal, with males producing a constant mellow, plaintive whistling sound, while the White-winged Scoter is generally quieter.