description Stejneger's scoter Overview
Stejneger's scoter is a large sea duck native to northeastern Asia and classified in the family Anatidae. Adult males are predominantly dark and have a conspicuous yellow-orange swelling on the bill, while females are brown with paler facial patches. The species breeds in inland northern areas and winters along coastal waters, where it dives for mollusks and other aquatic invertebrates. It was formerly treated as part of the white-winged scoter complex.
help Stejneger's scoter FAQ
What does a male Stejneger's scoter look like?
An adult male is predominantly dark and has a conspicuous yellow-orange swelling on the bill. That bill feature is one of the easiest ways to distinguish the species in the field.
Where does Stejneger's scoter breed?
It breeds in northeastern Asia, especially around inland lakes and other freshwater habitats. Outside the breeding season it moves toward coastal waters.
What family does Stejneger's scoter belong to?
Stejneger's scoter belongs to the duck family Anatidae. It is a large sea duck, although its breeding grounds are inland rather than exclusively marine.
How do female Stejneger's scoters differ from males?
Females are brown and have paler patches around the face, while males are much darker with the yellow-orange bill swelling. The difference in plumage makes sex identification relatively straightforward when the birds are seen well.
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