Quick facts

Weight1 kg
Eggs6–8 eggs
Incubation30–31 days
Fledging45–50 days
MigrationPartialMigratory
Breeding seasonMay–July
Common in IcelandNo
Breeds in IcelandYes
Best timeYear-round

About Common Scoter

The common scoter is a dark sea duck that breeds in Iceland in small numbers. Males are almost entirely black while females are dark brown.

Common scoters dive for molluscs, crustaceans and other invertebrates. They breed near freshwater but spend much of the non-breeding season at sea.

Habitat

Lakes, coastal waters and open sea

Diet

Molluscs, crustaceans, insects and other aquatic prey.

Nesting habitat

Lakes during breeding; coastal waters outside the breeding season.
SourceLast verified: 08/09/2026