Lesser Scaup (Aythya affinis)
Species
Lesser Scaup (Aythya affinis). Drake. Taken at Farmoor, Oxon., on March 3rd 2023.
Drake. Taken at Farmoor, Oxon., on March 3rd 2023.
(1/640th sec at f8. Click image for larger version. © David Hastings)

Description

L8 38 - 45cm; WS 8 60 - 65cm

The Lesser Scaup is a North American vagrant. The drake is similar to the drake Scaup, except that its white wing bar is only on the inner wing, and it has small bump on the back of its head. The female is like small, dark Scaup. Hybridisation occurs between the two species.

Its breeding habitat is tundra from Alaska through western Canada to western Montana

Its nest is made in a sheltered location on the ground near water, usually among thick vegetation such as sedges and bulrushes, sometimes in small loose groups and not rarely next to colonies of gulls or terns; several females may deposit eggs in a single nest.

Lesser Scaup usually associate with Tufted Ducks and Pochards on inland waters. On average two birds per year are found in the UK.

Sightings

21-Apr-2023 : Farmoor Reservoir, Oxon (1)
03-Mar-2023 : Farmoor Reservoir, Oxon (1)