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Greater Scaup vs Lesser Scaup: What Are the Differences?

Greater Scaup vs Lesser Scaup: What Are the Differences?Source: bing.com

Introduction

When it comes to identifying ducks, it can be a bit challenging, especially for amateur birdwatchers. The greater scaup and the lesser scaup are two species that are often confused with each other because they look very similar. However, they do have some distinct differences that can help you tell them apart.

Overview of Greater Scaup and Lesser Scaup

The greater scaup and the lesser scaup are both diving ducks that are commonly found in North America. They are migratory birds that spend their summers in the Arctic tundra and their winters in the United States, Mexico, and even the Caribbean.

The greater scaup is larger and heavier than the lesser scaup, weighing around 2.5 pounds as opposed to the lesser scaup, which weighs around 1.5 pounds. The greater scaup also has a longer neck, a rounder head, and a more pronounced forehead.

The lesser scaup, on the other hand, has a shorter neck and a flatter head with a less pronounced forehead. The male lesser scaup has a dark glossy head and a white body, while the female has a brown head and a brown body with white patches on the flanks.

Differences in Habitat and Range

Greater Scaup HabitatSource: bing.com

The greater scaup prefers to live in larger bodies of water such as bays, inlets, and open water in the ocean. They are also often found on large freshwater lakes and rivers. The lesser scaup, on the other hand, prefers smaller bodies of fresh water such as ponds and marshes. They are also commonly found on the Great Lakes and other large bodies of freshwater.

The greater scaup has a wider range than the lesser scaup. They can be found in the northern parts of Europe, Asia, and North America. The lesser scaup, on the other hand, is mostly found in North America, although they have been spotted in Europe and Asia on rare occasions.

Differences in Diet

Diet Of ScaupSource: bing.com

The greater scaup and the lesser scaup have similar diets, but they do have some differences. Both species feed on aquatic vegetation, insects, and other small aquatic animals. However, the greater scaup tends to feed more on mollusks such as clams and mussels, while the lesser scaup feeds more on crustaceans such as freshwater shrimp.

Differences in Behavior

Behavior Of ScaupSource: bing.com

The greater scaup and the lesser scaup have different behaviors when it comes to mating and feeding. During mating season, the male greater scaup will perform a courtship display in which he will bob his head and make a soft cooing sound. The female will then respond by quacking. The lesser scaup does not have a specific courtship display.

When feeding, the greater scaup tends to dive deeper than the lesser scaup. They are also known to feed in larger groups, while the lesser scaup tends to feed alone or in small groups.

Conclusion

While the greater scaup and the lesser scaup may appear to be very similar, there are some key differences that can help you tell them apart. By paying attention to their size, weight, head shape, habitat, range, diet, and behavior, you can become a more confident and knowledgeable birdwatcher.

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