The combined breeding population of Greater and Lesser Scaup is larger than that of any other diving duck species and greater than that of most dabbling ducks in North America. The Greater Scaup can be distinguished from the very similar Lesser Scaup by its larger size, wing stripe that extends well into the primaries, and glossy, greenish head as an adult male in alternate plumage. Both species migrate late, sometimes just before freezeup. Flock movements are rapid, often erratic, usually in compact groups

Body:
Small compact diving duck
Length: 18 - 19 inches
Weight: 1.5 to 2.0 pounds
Rounded crown Yellow eyes (brown in immatures)
Blue bill with black nail at tip
Adult Male: Similar to adult female
Adult female: Distinct white band around base of bill Dark brown body plumage Whitish belly
Immature female similar to adult female, immature male is similar to female in autumn, but acquires alternate plumage during winter
Adult male alternate: Alternate plumage worn from fall through early summer Glossy greenish head Black breast Whitish or pale gray flanks, white belly Whitish back with fine black vermiculations.

Voice:
Male: A discordant scaup, scaup.
Female: silent.

Habitat:
large open water areas particularly brackish or saltwater habitats.

Range:
Scaup are the most widespread of North American diving ducks extending from northern tundra in Alaska and Canada in summer to southern Mexico in winter.

Food:
Diet consists of aquatic mollusks and insects.
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