Scaup
Aythya marila
Length 42-51cm

Locally common winter visitor to Britain and Ireland but rare breeding species. Superficially similar to tufted duck but larger. Male (A) has rounded, green-glossed head which lacks tufted crest; has dark breast, white belly and flanks, grey back and black stern. Female (B) has brown plumage, palest on flanks, and shows conspicuous white face patch. Usually seen in single species flocks in coastal waters, mainly N and E Britain and much of Irish coast. Occasionally on coastal lakes and reservoirs, particularly if forced to move by severe weather.