Lesser Scaup

Aythya affinis

Overview

The Lesser Scaup (Aythya affinis) is a species of waterfowl (family Anatidae) in the order Anseriformes of bird (class Aves).

Description

A diving duck. Males have a black breast, grey back, whitish sides. The dark, iridescent head with a purplish or greenish sheen. Females are brown overall with white patch at base of bill. Both sexes hava a yellow eye. Immature birds resemble the adult female, but are duller with little white at the base of the bill.

Range

Found in inland lakes and marsh ponds through North America.