The Scaup
Scaup
Aythya marila L 46, W 79. Uncommon to scarce breeding bird on northern coasts (in Scandinavia on upland lakes in birch and willow zone), Most easily confused with Tufted Duck. The male however has pale grey back, which at a distance produces shining white 'amidships' appearance. Female has broad white band (sometimes tinged brown) around bill base and in summers pale mark towards the back of the cheek (see fig. above left), and is slightly paler than female Tufted, more reddish-brown (breast) and grey-washed (back). The Scaup is slightly larger, at all times lacks crest on head and has less peaked forehead (gives rounder head profile) and has slightly larger bill. Only nail of bill is black. WP
An
excellent pocket reference book for recognising
birds is the Hamlyn Guide to Birds of Britain
and Europe, which is a comprehensive reference
guide to Britain and mainland Europe's plethora
of ornithological life.
