The Greater Scaup is very similar in appearance to its close cousin, the Lesser Scaup, but is generally found further north in the summer, is only rarely found very far inland in winter, and can also be found in northern Europe and Asia. See notes below for differentiating between Greater and Lesser Scaup.
Habitat
Found on lakes and bogs near the treeline during the summer breeding season. In winter, found mainly on coastal estuaries and bays, with smaller numbers on inland lakes.
Diet
Feeds heavily on mollusks, including snails, clams, oysters, and mussels, as well as crustaceans and insects. Also feeds on plant material.
Behavior
A diving duck, primarily foraging by diving from the water's surface and swimming underwater for food items. They will also sometimes act like dabbling ducks, swimming on the water's surface and grabbing food items from the surface or by dipping the head below the surface.
Breeding
Non-breeder in South Dakota.
Song
Generally quiet, but with a loud scaup note, as well as soft whistling by the courting male..
Migration
Summers in Northern Canada and Alaska. Winters along both the Pacific and Atlantic coastlines of North America.
Interactive eBird Map
Click here to access an interactive eBird map of Greater Scaup sightings
Similar Species
Lesser Scaup, Ring-necked Duck. Greater Scaup is extremely similar to Lesser Scaup, but with a different head shape (more rounded, highest point near front of head), a larger bill, and a longer white wing stripe visible in flight.
Conservation Status
Generally abundant and stable throughout most of its range.
Further Information
- eBird - Greater Scaup
- Audubon Field Guide - Greater Scaup
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology - All About Birds: Greater Scaup
Photo Information
May 1st, 2009 - Lake Thompson , South Dakota - Terry Sohl
