Surf Scoter (Melanitta perspicillata), Willcox, Cochise County

These Surf Scoters were discovered  by Dave Stejskal, Mark Stevenson, Molly Pollock and Andrew Core and photographed by Andrew Core on 08 October 2012

Surf Scoter is a rare but regular late fall migrant with peak passage in November. It is the most regular of the scoters in Arizona.  The earliest fall record for a scoter of any kind is 8 October, and this group of 7 represents one of the largest flocks in recent years. 

Dark brown, heavy set duck with two large white patches on side of head indicating female or immature scoter. Large sloping head with large triangular shaped dark bill.  Larger White-winged Scoter has longer and narrower bill with feathering extending down the bill. 

 

08 October 2012, photos by Andrew Core

All photos are copyrighted© by photographer