White-winged Scoter

Melanitta fusca

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.

Similar Species: Surf Scoter, Black Scoter

Conservation Status: Generally stable throughout it's normal range.

Further Information: 1) USGS Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, White-winged Scoter

2) Cornell Lab of Ornithology - White-winged Scoter

3) eNature.com: White-winged Scoter

Photo Information: January, 2004 -- Barnegat Inlet, New Jersey -- Chris Davidson