Black Scoter
The black scoter is the smallest and most all-dark of the three North American scoters, a hardy sea duck hunted from layout boats along cold coasts.
🗓️ Last reviewed: July 2026
Overview
The black scoter is the smallest and most all-dark of the three North American scoters, a hardy sea duck hunted from layout boats along cold coasts. The drake's bright orange bill knob on an otherwise jet-black body makes it a striking sea-duck catch.
Identification & Appearance
Drakes are entirely glossy black with a swollen bright orange-yellow knob at the base of the bill; hens are brown with pale cheeks. The all-black body and orange bill knob distinguish drakes from other scoters.
Range & Habitat
Black scoters winter along both coasts over shellfish beds, diving in the surf line and open bays.
Behavior & Sign
They raft over mussel beds, whistle in flight, and trade low along the coast, decoying to sea-duck spreads. Strong divers, they are hardy in rough water.
Hunting Seasons & Timing
Hunted in the sea-duck seasons of late fall and winter from layout boats and shoreline points.
Hunting Methods
Long lines of scoter and eider decoys off points, hunted from anchored layout boats in the surf zone.
Gear & Optics
A 12-gauge with steel #2 to BB, a seaworthy boat and full cold-water safety gear.
Shot Placement & Field Care
Close shots over the decoys and quick recovery of divers; breast the birds.
Meat & Eating Quality
Strong and fishy like other sea ducks; most hunters breast, soak and cook them boldly.
Common Mistakes
Unsafe open water and poor concealment on a wary diver.
Regulations & Conservation
Sea ducks fall under specific migratory seasons and limits. Confirm current regulations and safety before hunting. We do not give legal advice.
FAQ
How do I ID a drake? All-black body with a bright orange bill knob.
Table quality? Strong - managed with soaking and bold cooking.