Circumpolar, breeding in tundra and northern taiga areas, this
species has two subspecies marila and nearctica, which are distinguishable in the field, one of
the main differences being head shape. This can invite confusion with Lesser Scaup, nearctica appearing
somewhat intermediate. Birds winter to the south but almost always coastally and in discrete areas. Whilst not
abundant populations are significant, but it is in decline. Every winter sees sightings in the UK, but it is not
numerous.
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