Scaup
Aythya marila
The Scaup is a medium-sized diving duck that can be seen in Britain, particularly during the winter months, with notable sightings in coastal areas and estuaries. It is a rare breeding bird in Britain, but can be found in small numbers in the northern parts of the country.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Scaup in the field.
The Scaup can be identified by its broad, rounded head, grey back, and white belly, as well as its distinctive black nail on the tip of its bill. Its head shape and bill pattern are key features that distinguish it from other diving ducks.
The Scaup is slightly larger than a Tufted Duck, but smaller than a Pochard, making it a medium-sized waterfowl.
The male Scaup has a glossy black head, grey back, and white belly, with a purple sheen to its head feathers in good light, and its plumage remains relatively consistent throughout the year.
The female Scaup has a brown head and body, with a greyish-brown back and white belly, similar to the male but with a more subdued colouration.
The Scaup's call is a soft, nasal "kuk" or "kruk" sound, often repeated in a series of two or three notes.
Scaup are diving ducks that feed on aquatic plants and small invertebrates, often swimming with their heads submerged and their tails held high, and they can be seen flying in small groups with a rapid, direct flight style.
The Scaup can be confused with the Tufted Duck, but can be distinguished by its broader head, lack of a tuft, and distinctive black nail on its bill, as well as its more subdued female plumage.
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