ML646556615

Media notes

The bird at far left is smaller and appears to be a lesser scaup. The two remaining females show characteristics of greater scaup. There was much debate about the male's identity; I feel it is greater, but an ebird reviewer felt lesser is more accurate.

Observation details

Actual count. One adult male, two adult female, one juvenile. Differentiated from lesser scaup by broad headwidth, particularly on the lower half of the head, and broad bill. Head shape generally consistent with greater scaup. Females have broad white band at base of bill, as opposed to the slightly thinner band more typical of lesser scaup. All together floating on water. Just downriver from Civitan Park Beach.

Additional species

• Lesser Scaup Aythya affinis