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Lesser Scaup / Greater Scaup ? (1 Viewer)

littletiff99

Well-known member
I saw these birds at different times at Bolsa Chica Ecologicl Reserve in Southern California. Both were at winter time. I am having a lot of difficulties discerning between lesser and greater scaups. My guess is my first picture might possibly be a greater while my second two pictures might be lesser. Anybody have any ideas?
 

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I would be happy with this verdict. The first bird has a more round headed appearance with a green sheen. The others show the typical peaked crown with a purple sheen.
 
Lessers are rare birds this side of the pond. But, I agree with you guys, there are nape bumps on the second and third photos, this along with the black tipped bill, the slightly heavier back markings and greyer flanks steer me towards Lessers. The first shot epitomises the Scaup (Greater).
 
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