Lesser Scaup
The Greater and Lessor Scaups are very similar to each other. One has a narrower head (lesser) and the other rounder (greater). The lesser is about 1-2 inches shorter in length but without them side by side I can not tell the difference. The Greater Scaup wings are white and go all the way to primary feathers, the entire wing edge is white in flight. The Greater Scaup pattern on its back is crosshatch limited to the back while the Lesser Scaup patter is Crosshatch on the back and flanks and gives it a dirty appearance.
Thanks to Sue who weighted in below, This is a Lessor Scaup.
Aythya affinis
This Photo was taken at Frank Lake Alberta Canada
Lesser Scaup
The Greater and Lessor Scaups are very similar to each other. One has a narrower head (lesser) and the other rounder (greater). The lesser is about 1-2 inches shorter in length but without them side by side I can not tell the difference. The Greater Scaup wings are white and go all the way to primary feathers, the entire wing edge is white in flight. The Greater Scaup pattern on its back is crosshatch limited to the back while the Lesser Scaup patter is Crosshatch on the back and flanks and gives it a dirty appearance.
Thanks to Sue who weighted in below, This is a Lessor Scaup.
Aythya affinis
This Photo was taken at Frank Lake Alberta Canada