The Lesser Scaup has a narrower, taller head and, as the name indicates, is smaller in size averaging 16.5 inches in length as opposed to 18 inches for the Greater Scaup. At this time of year, most ducks are readily identified based on … When it comes to IDs, Ring-necked Ducks can be easily ruled out because of their ringed . Hard to tell in the field. The neck, breast and upper mantle are glossy black, and the flanks and belly are white, sometimes with gray vermiculations on the lower flanks. BirdForum - The net's largest birding community, dedicated to wild birds Separating Greater from Lesser Scaup is a real challenge. Still, there’s quite a bit of overlap in their ranges, especially in the summer when Greaters hang out in lakes and bogs, in addition to their regular seaside dives. . While Greater usually shows a greenish gloss to the head and neck and Lesser a purple gloss, both can show a … There’s a slight distinction in the species’ vocals as well—if you’re so lucky to hear them. National Audubon Society Let’s talk about "Oreo ducks." In fact, that may be the only distinguishing clue you can see. Some clues to help distinguish between these two often-confused finches. You know, those diving ducks that are black on the ends and white in the middle? At this time of year, any lake, reservoir or gravel pit should host this species, as well as its frequent companion, Common Pochard. Here is a summary of the seven responses I got to the three scaup photos I posted a couple of days ago.First, a bit more background. They both form flocks that number in the hundreds or thousands. Audubon does not participate in political campaigns, nor do we support or oppose candidates.”. Are the Trump Administration's Environmental Rollbacks Built to Last? The males also look like they have white and gray whales imprinted on their sides. Learning to Identify Lesser and Greater Scaup ***This guest post is written by Brian Zwiebel. Spread the word. Male greater scaup have a glossy black head tinted green. Though a scarce breeding bird in Britain, it is much more regular in winter, when numbers are boosted by continental migrants. The greater and lesser scaup are very similar. Winters on lakes, reservoirs, rivers, sheltered areas of coastal bays. Still, there’s quite a bit of overlap in their ranges, especially in the summer when Greaters hang out in lakes and bogs, in addition to their regular seaside dives. Greater Scaup can be purple (not usually this close to the alternate colors season) , but Lesser Scaup don't get green. Greater and lesser scaup are often found together, but the larger size of the greater scaup is very obvious. Overall Appearance . Furthermore, there is much overlap between the species in terms of bill shape and coloration, plumage, and wing patterns. And remember: Even if you make the wrong call, the ducks won’t think any less of you. As well, your photo shows fine vermiculations in the white flanks, this is typical of Lesser Scaup, Greaters tend to … Audubon protects birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. The female’s extensions are much shorter, but they’re still noticeable. Good luck with your I.D. Learn tips for creating your most beautiful (and bountiful) garden ever. LESSER VS. I have said it before and I will say it again – I love getting to Jamaica Bay at the end of a day and photographing waterfowl flying in and out of the West Pond. Here, black-and-white males and chocolatey-brown females bob along on the waves. When examining the scaups, check for these characteristics to distinguish between the greater and the lesser: Identifying scaups in the field can be a great challenge, but it is possible. Greater and Lesser Scaup Summary of Responses. They congregate by the hundreds and thousands along the Pacific and Atlantic coasts during winter. The greater scaup and lesser scaup are some of the most challenging waterfowl for birders to distinguish between, and there is no single indicator that is clear for either bird. 1) Seen at Burnaby Lake (Vancouver BC) on March 23rd 2019. Dr. Drew Lanham taught this Palmetto Pro Birder class for SCWF at Huntington Beach State Park in January, 2017. Evening, sunset. Other notes: The best time to review the shape of the head is when the ducks are loafing around or napping. Head shape is considered the key to separating the two species, but changes based on the activity, such as resting or diving (the wet head).
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