scaup

[ skawp ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

any of several diving ducks of the genus Aythya, especially A. marila greater scaup, of the Northern Hemisphere, having a bluish-gray bill.

scaup

/ skɔːp /

either of two diving ducks, Aythya marila ( greater scaup ) or A. affinis ( lesser scaup ), of Europe and America, having a black-and-white plumage in the male Also called (US)bluebillbroadbill

Origin of scaup¹

1665–75; by ellipsis from scaup duck, probably with Scots, N dial. scaup, scalp mussel bed (of uncertain origin)

Origin of scaup¹

C16: Scot variant of scalp

The scaup came down the sky in dark masses, giving a rippling purr as they flew.

The lesser scaup, or little blue-bill (Aythya affinis) has a white speculum also, but the sheen of the head and neck is purple.

The nesting habits are the same as those of the Greater Scaup and the eggs are similar but smaller.

The Scaup Duck is very abundant in Holland during winter, covering the inland seas with immense flocks.

It is an expert diver, and a flock of hundreds of scaup may sometimes be seen to immerse themselves at the same moment.

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