Scaup 〈FREE · 2026〉

Because they are so small and fluffy, they are naturally buoyant and often pop back up to the surface like a cork after just a few seconds, unable to stay submerged for long. Other Noteworthy Features:

One of the most interesting features of scaup —specifically the —is the "eager" behavior of their chicks. Unlike many other ducks, Lesser Scaup chicks are incredibly precocious: as soon as their downy feathers dry after hatching, they immediately jump into the water and start testing their diving skills. Because they are so small and fluffy, they

Mother Greater Scaups pluck thick layers of down from their own breasts to line their nests for warmth; if they are in poor health, they might use small grayish-white feathers from their body instead. Dan's Feathursday Feature: Lesser Scaup, Greater Scaup Mother Greater Scaups pluck thick layers of down