Documentation of Black Scoter
2013-312

Observer Information

Reporter:  Polly Wren Neldner  PO Box 358,   La Veta, CO  81055
E-mail:  pollywren@gmail.com
Other Observers:  First observed by Mark Peterson. Also seen by my husband, Paul

Species, Date, Time and Location Information

Species:  Black Scoter
First Date/Time:  10/26/2013 11:36:00 AM
Last Date/Time:  10/26/2013 12:10:00 PM
Duration (total time in view):  34 minutes
County:  Huerfano
Specific Location:  Lathrop State Park
Number:  1
Age:  Immature
Sex:  Unknown
Plumage:  Non-breeding

Habitat

Horseshoe Lake

Viewing Conditions

Optics:  Kowa Spotting Scope, binoculars 1000mm lens
Distance:  1/4 mile
Light:  Good bright day...some heat distortion

Description of the Bird

Overall gray with dark cap and pale cheeks and thin bill. Tail erect. Do not think the bird was dark enough to be adult female.

Similar Species Discussion

Eliminate from other scoters due to shorter thinner bill. Lack of vertical white patch that and dark eye eliminated Surf Scoter. Lack of white lores and white secondaries eliminated White-winged Scoter.

Resources Used

Sibley's

Previous Experience

Both my husband and myself have seen Surf and White-winged Scoters. I have seen Black Scoter, male and female before.

Notes

Notes made DURING observation

Materials Available

Photographer: Polly Wren Neldner

Photos |

2608_IMG_0187.JPG
2608_IMG_0192.JPG


Date Documentation Submitted

10/26/2013 4:01:00 PM
Click left or right edges of photos to move through all; click outside image to close

Location Map

The marker on the map shows an approximation of the location of this report. The marker is generated using a prioritized Logic base:
1) If the observer has entered coordinates, they will be shown.
2) No specific coordinates are available but the location is mappable.
3) A generic location with no specific coordinates is mapped to the center of the reported county.

Powered By Subgurim(http://googlemaps.subgurim.net).Google Maps ASP.NET