Lesser scaup and greater scaup can be difficult to separate. The best way to identify the two is by the shape of the head and bill. Lesser scaup have a peaked crown at the back of their heads, while greater scaup have a more rounded head. Greater scaup also have a wider bill with a bigger nail. Some sources suggest that lesser scaup have duller, grayer colors, and more purplish heads; greater scaup have brighter colors and greener heads. The field marks based on coloration are generally less reliable, as colors can appear differently under different light conditions.
Large flocks of scaup congregate on the Potomac River and in the Washington Channel during January and February.
Carnivals
- For more animals, see The Modulator's Friday Ark.