Status
Conservation status
This species is Red-listed
according to Birds of Conservation Concern in Ireland 2020-2026 and is of high
conservation value as a result.
According to the last IUCN Red
List assessment in 2018, the Common Scoter is a species of ‘Least Concern’ on a
global scale. However, an unknown global population trend was noted, meaning
data deficiency may be impacting the integrity of this assessment.
Species Biology
Identification
The Common Scoter is a medium-sized
sea duck that stands at 44-54 cm in length, with a wingspan of 79-90 cm and a
weight ranging from 650-1,300 grams.
Males of this species can be
identified by their all black colouration with the exception of a yellow knob
at the base of the bill.
The female is brown in colour and
has pale whitish cheeks.
Diet
The Common Scoter is omnivorous
but feeds primarily on animal material such as insect larvae, crustaceans,
molluscs and fish eggs. Plant material such as aquatic plants may also be
taken.
Habitat
Suitable feeding habitat includes
shallower waters with sandy substrate.
Suitable breeding habitat
includes islands that provide adequate scrub and tree cover.
Reproduction
During the breeding season, this
species lays a clutch of 6-8 eggs, each weighing approximately 72 grams, and
will incubate these eggs for a period of 30-31 days.
The young fledge after 45-50
days.
A typical wild Common Scoter will
live for around six years, with breeding occurring at two years.
Threats faced
Numbers are in decline due to
predators such as the highly invasive American Mink.
Distribution
World distribution(GBIF)
Irish distribution
The Common Scoter is a resident
in Ireland but numbers are bolstered when winter visitors arrive from Europe.
Temporal change
Records submitted to Data Centre in 2025
The following map is interactive. If you would prefer to view it full screen then click here.
Further information
BirdWatch Ireland: https://birdwatchireland.ie/birds/common-scoter/
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds: https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/wildlife-guides/bird-a-z/common-scoter/
British Trust for Ornithology: https://app.bto.org/birdfacts/results/bob2130.htm
IUCN Red List: https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22724879/132257623