Velvet scoter

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The Velvet Scoter (Melanitta fusca) is a large sea duck, which breeds over the far north of Europe and Asia west of the Yenisey basin. The East Siberian and North American White-winged Scoter is sometimes considered subspecies of the Velvet Scoter, M. f. stejnegeri and M. f. deglandi.

It winters further south in temperate zones, Europe as far south as Great Britain, and on the Black and Caspian Sea. It forms large flocks on suitable coastal waters. These are tightly packed, and the birds tend to take off together.

The lined nest is built on the ground close to the sea, lakes or rivers, in woodland or tundra. 7-9 eggs are laid. This duck dives for crustaceans and molluscs.

It is characterised by its bulky shape and large bill. It is the largest scoter at 51-58 cm. The male is all black, except for white around the eye and a white speculum. It has a bulbous yellow bill with a black base. The females are brown birds with pale head patches.