Lesser Scaup

Aythya affinis

The Lesser Scaup is a small diving duck found in North America. It has a distinctive black head with a purple sheen, a gray body, and a bright yellow eye. Males have a pale gray back and females have a brownish-gray back. These ducks breed in freshwater lakes and ponds in the northern parts of their range and migrate to coastal areas in the winter. They are skilled divers, feeding on aquatic plants, insects, and small fish. The Lesser Scaup is known for its rapid wingbeats and quick takeoffs from the water. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting their breeding and wintering habitats.

Habitat: Freshwater lakes and ponds