black scoter

bird

Also known as: Melanitta nigra, Oidemia nigra, common scoter

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Last updated

June 22, 2026

Quick Summary

The black scoter (Melanitta nigra) is a species of sea duck belonging to the genus Melanitta. Adult males are entirely black, while females and young birds are primarily dark brown on their upper bodies and mottled brown and white below. Scoters are adept swimmers and divers, spending most of their time at sea except during the breeding season. They primarily feed on marine animals like clams, with plant material making up only about 10 percent of their diet. The three species of scoter, including the black scoter, are often observed feeding together in mixed flocks.12

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scoter
The black scoter is the least abundant in the New World. All three species of scoter feed mainly on marine animals such as clams; only about 10 percent of their diet is plant material. The three species may be seen feeding in mixed flocks.
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The black scoter is the least abundant in the New World. All three species of scoter feed mainly on marine animals such as clams; only about 10 percent of their diet is plant material. The three species may be seen feeding in mixed flocks.
Read More