Surf Scoter (Melanitta perspicillata), Fountain Hills Lake, Maricopa County

These two Surf Scoters were discovered and photographed at Fountain Hills Lake by Tommy DeBardeleben on 29 October 2011. Also photographed by Gordon Karre 20 October 2011.

Surf Scoter is the most frequently observed of the three scoters in Arizona. It is a rare transient and most likely in late fall or early winter. 

Dark brown, heavy set duck with two large white patches on side of head indicating female or immature scoter. Large sloping head with large triangular shaped dark bill. Larger White-winged Scoter has longer and narrower bill.

29 October 2011, photos by Tommy DeBardeleben

30 October 2011, photos by Gordon Karre

 

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