Melanitta americana
Length: 16-20 Weight: 2-3 lbs
Identification:
Male is all black with a distinctive yellow knob on bill. Female is dark brown with cap, and pale gray/brown on cheeks.
Distribution:
Breed in Alaska and eastern Canada. Winter along the Pacific, Atlantic, and Gulf Coasts. Eurasian population breeds in Russia and China, and winters along the western Pacific Ocean and western Europe.
Cool Facts:
Black Scoters are not well known in North America – few nests have ever been found, and the species is listed as near threatened by the IUCN.
Black Scoters are very vocal for waterfowl, and can often be heard giving a plaintive whistle.
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References:
Bird on the Move 