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Presidio of San Francisco Fog over Crissy Field
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Presidio of San Francisco
Surf Scoter
(Melanitta perspicillata)
 
Surf Scoter
Will Elder, NPS
A Surf Scoter swims off of Baker Beach.
 

Natural History: The Surf Scoter feeds primarily on mollusks, but it also eats fish and crustaceans, which are caught by diving. It can be found resting on open waters in flocks. It nests in areas of brush or trees near slow moving water from June to September.

General Distribution: In the Presidio, this species can be found in bays and the ocean.

Frequency: This animal is commonly seen in fall and spring and is abundant during the winter.

Identifying Characteristics: The males of this species are black with white on the head or nape. The females are a dusky brown with light spots on the sides of its head.

Presidio Birds main page

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U.S. Army major rank insignia

Did You Know?
In 1915, a tragic fire at the Presidio claimed the lives of General Pershing’s wife and his three daughters. Pershing's son, Francis Warren, survived the blaze and chose to enlist in the army as a private during World War II. By the end of the war he had achieved the rank of major.
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Last Updated: November 16, 2007 at 17:22 MST