Male Velvet Scoters can be identified at close range by the
neat white 'tear drop' just behind the eye, the greater
extent of yellow in the bill around the edges not just in
the centre and by occasional glimpses of the white patch in
the closed wing. The name 'scoter' may be derived from Old
Norse and from the Old English word 'sceotan' meaning to
move rapidly. The term Velvet is a direct reference to the
extreme softness of the feathers. Some historical names for
Velvet Scoter include; Black Diver, Double Scoter, Doucker
and Whilk.
There have been six Velvet Scoter reported from S.
Gloucestershire;
1996: (1)
One was watched on November 16th off Severn Beach.
1987: (2)
Two, a male and female were found on January 25th off Severn
Beach; they lingered throughout February and were present
until at least March 20th.
1984: (1)
A
female was seen in flight heading north-east on April 26th
off New Passage.
1983: (1)
A
male flew up river past Severn Beach on November 7th.
1892: (1)
On March 5th an adult male was 'obtained' off New Passage.