Common Scoter

🔍 Overview

The Common Scoter is a sea duck seen off the Sussex coast in winter or on spring migration. Usually in flocks, often distant offshore.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Size: Medium (44–48 cm)
Plumage: Males: black; Females: brown with paler cheeks
Distinctive Marks: Males have a yellow bump at bill base
Bill: Broad and dark
Tail: Short
Flight: Fast and direct in low flocks

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Most often seen at sea from  Brighton Marina, Worthing Beaches or Goring Gap.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Generally silent at sea. Sometimes gives piping calls on breeding grounds.

🍴 Diet

Dives for molluscs and crustaceans.

📸 Birding Tip

Use a telescope. Scan distant flocks on calm sea or during spring sea-watches (March–May).