Hi all: Here in New Jersey where Surf Scoters are just a wee bit more common than they are in Colorado (and by "wee bit more common" I mean they are abundant), most all of the immature males are showing some sign of their sex: color on the bill and/or white on the nape. Granted, Surfs showing up in Colorado may be delayed in their molt for some reason or other, but I would suggest that Surf Scoters not showing some sign of maleness in December are probably females. Of course, this is biology I'm writing about, so take the above with however many grains of salt you feel appropriate. Also, beware that old female Surf Scoters can sport some white on the nape.
Ageing them is even simpler, but that's not to say that it's easy. Juvenile scoters have whitish bellies, but this can generally only be seen when the individuals are in flight or when rolling over to preen. Sincerely, Tony Leukering Villas, NJ -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to [email protected]. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to [email protected]. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
