The male's strong head pattern earns the species the hunters' nickname of "skunk-head coot."

The surf scoter occurs only in North America.

Surf scoters breed on shallow freshwater lakes found in the closed and open Boreal Forests of northern Canada and Alaska.


The black-and-white patches on the heads of male Surf Scoters prompted this sea duck’s nickname “old skunkhead,” although the big, sloping orange bill is at least as distinctive. When feeding, they usually spring forward and dive with the wings partly opened. Beach access is limited by the locked gated entrance at the end of the private beach path ensuring a much less crowded stretch of beach. Located 2nd Row Oceanside on the Atlantic Ocean, this beautiful 7-bedroom home features 3 master suites with private bathrooms and balconies, all-weather Carolina Room, furnished outdoor deck, private pool and spa, 4-car garage and bedding for up to 16 guests. surf scoter: North America, mostly in Northern Canada and Alaska The presumed fossil … Surf Scoter is located in Atlantic Pointe, a private community within Sea Pines. 26 Surf Scoter ~ Sea Pines. Surf Scoter.

In winter, look for these dark-bodied ducks (and the browner females) near to shore, defying ocean waves with a quick dive just before they break. We are thrilled to welcome 26 Surf Scoter in Sea Pines Plantation to Destination Vacation! Melanitta perspicillata . This duck is common in winter on both coasts; on Pacific Coast, often seen around fishing piers and harbors. They are virtually unstudied, particularly during the breeding season.