BEACHCOMBER

THE SURF SCOTER, a member of the duck family informally known as a sea duck, is sometimes called a “skunk head” because of the white spot on its head. Male surf scoters, like the one pictured, are black with a large white, orange and black bill that appears swollen, a feature that distinguishes it from other scoters. Female and juvenile scoters are less colorful with a more normal beak shape.

The surf scoter winters in our coastal waters. You might see them playing in the surf, quickly diving into waves as they break. They head north to Canada and Alaska in the warmer months to nest near fresh water sources. Their numbers have been decreasing due to loss of habitat through climate change. ■

Class: Aves Order: Anseriformes Family: Anatidae Genus: Melanitta Species: Melanitta perspicillata

Surf scoter

CORONADOBEACHCOMBER

Coronado’s shoreline changes with the weather, tides and time of year. Coronadobeachcomber explores our shores daily on the beach or at the bay, paying attention to the interesting animals, shells and sea life. Follow @coronadobeachcomber on Instagram.