White-Winged Scoter

The White-Winged Scoter is the largest of the three scoter species and an unmistakable sight on Puget Sound. Drakes are deep black with a bold white eye crescent and a bright orange-tipped bill, while both sexes show the signature white wing patch visible in flight. These birds are often found far offshore, diving deep to feed on shellfish and crabs, and are known for their loud wingbeats and steady, purposeful flight.

In Washington, White-Winged Scoters are common winter visitors and are managed under general sea duck hunting regulations. They require careful setup and sometimes a longer boat ride to reach productive hunting grounds. Washington allows hunters to successfully harvest three scoters per day, with the white-winged scoter being amongst that three scoters a day along with the black scoter and surf scoter.  Their size, striking appearance, and wary nature make them a prized species for any waterfowler aiming to complete the full “scoter slam” in Puget Sound.