Black scoter

A duck that is entirely black.

Scientific name	Melanitta nigra
English name	Black scoter
Japanese name	黒鴨
Class	Aves
Order	Anseriformes
Family	Anatidae
Genus	Melanitta
Species	nigra
Full length	45-54cm
Distribution	Breeds in high latitudes of Eurasia and North America, and migrates to Japan in winter.

Black scoter Characteristics and Morphology

Around 50cm in total length, appearing slightly smaller than the Eastern spot-billed duck (Anas zonorhyncha).
The head does not have a developed crest, resulting in a rounded silhouette. The bill and iris are black to dark brown. The legs are black.

Male

Entirely black.
Only the base of the bill is bright yellow, with the rest of the body being black. The iris is also dark brown, making it difficult to distinguish. The wings and tail are also entirely black.

Female

Unlike the male, the entire body is brown.
The face below the eyes is pale gray. The entire bill is black.

Song

Vocalizes with a high-pitched "Phee" sound.

Black scoter Ecology

Habitat

Inhabits the sea.

Food

Eats aquatic crustaceans and shellfish.

Life Cycle

Migrates to Japan in winter to overwinter.

Black scoter Photos

Black scoter Photos are introduced.
Tap the photo to open the detail page.

The male is entirely black except for its bill.

Black scoter Behavior

Forms flocks outside of the breeding season.

Black scoter Information

Naming

The genus name "Melanitta" is a combination of "melas" (black) and "netta" (duck).

Black scoter Found Locations

Abukuma River Estuary

Photographed near the mouth of the Abukuma River in December. It was difficult to get close enough for a good shot. Especially, photographing the eyes was challenging because its body is black. It was foraging among other waterfowl such as Horned Grebes.

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