Surf Scoter (Melanitta perspicillata), Amado, Arizona, Pima County

This Surf Scoter was photographed by James Barr on 01 November 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. 

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.

01 November 2012, photo by James Barr

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