Velvet Scoter

Melanitta fusca

The velvet scoter is a large sea duck, which breeds over the far north of Europe and the Palearctic west of the Yenisey basin. The genus name is derived from Ancient Greek melas "black" and netta "duck". The species name is from the Latin fuscus "dusky brown".

Select tracking region

Where are you looking?

Select a tracking region above to ping the eBird database and reveal live hotspots for the Velvet Scoter.

Loading sightings...

💬 Discussion

Loading comments...

Enter your name and email to join the discussion

Low-Light Telephoto Systems

Identifying specific features of the Velvet Scoter requires high-contrast magnification. Check out the top-rated 8x42 optics.

View Pro Optics

📘 ID Reference Card

Duck & Waterfowl ID Reference

Compact pocket-card format — print & fold. Covers plumage, field marks, and song mnemonics.

$4.99View Card

Expedition Prep

Targeting the Velvet Scoter?

Build a custom travel itinerary around these hotpot clusters using our trip planning suite.

Open Planner