The White-winged Scoter, the largest of the Scoters, is also the
Scoter most likely to be found in South Dakota. The white wing patch that
gives the species its name is sometimes hidden while swimming, but is very
visible in flight. Although they breed on freshwater lakes, ponds, and
rivers of Canada and Alaska, they primarily migrate to coastal habitats for the
winter.
Habitat: In summer, can be found in a variety of
aquatic habitats in open country, including ponds, lakes, and slow rivers.
In winter, they are primarily along coastal waters, with some on the Great
Lakes and other large inland water bodies.
Diet: Primarily feeds on mollusks. Will also feed on
crustaceans, small fish, aquatic insects, and some aquatic plants.
Behavior: Dives underwater to forage, propelling
itself by its feet.
Breeding: Non-breeder in South Dakota
Song: Often silent, but both sexes have a
whistling note in courtship, and low croaks.
Migration: Summers throughout much of Canada and Alaska. Winters along both the
Pacific and Atlantic coasts of North America. They are relatively rare migrants
in South Dakota.
Conservation Status: There is some uncertainty over
the population trend of the White-winged Scoter, but they are possibly in
decline. However, the
IUCN considers the White-winged Scoter to be a species of "least concern",
as population trends are not currently considered severe enough to warrant a
less favorable status.
2)
WhatBird - White-winged Scoter
3)
Audubon Guide - White-winged Scoter
Photo Information: January, 2004 -- Barnegat
Inlet, New Jersey -- Chris
Davidson