Surf Scoter

🔍 Overview

A rare North American sea duck occasionally recorded off Sussex during winter gales, especially after storms.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Male: Black with large white patches on head and nape, colourful swollen bill

Female: Brown with pale cheek patches

Size: Larger than a Common Scoter (48–55 cm)

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Best looked for during seawatches at Selsey Bill, Worthing, or Birling Gap, mainly November–March.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Usually silent. Often dives in rough seas, hard to spot in large scoter flocks.