Non-Breeding Birds Distribution Map

Surf Scoter (Melanitta fusca)

The Washington GAP Analysis Program applied to breeding birds only. These maps, which include wintering birds, pelagic (coastal) birds, and birds expanding their ranges, do not include range maps.

NatureMapping observations reported by townships throughout the year.

Species Distribution Information

This scoter also winters in coastal areas from the Pribilofs to Baja California. The Surf Scoter nests on tundra and wooded areas near water in British Columbia. The Surf Scoter is a common winter resident of Washington coastal waters, in sheltered bays as well as rougher waters just off the breakers. Non-breeding flocks are local in summer, especially in Penn Cove on Whidbey Island. It is rare in eastern Washington -mostly found in fall on the Columbia River, the Snake river reservoirs and the Grand Coulee lakes.