Standard English Name(s): lesser scaup
Local English Name(s): bluebill
Scientific Name(s): Aythya affinis (Eyton)
Upriver Halkomelem Name(s):
Downriver Halkomelem Name(s):
Island Halkomelem Name(s):

Description, Habitat, Ecology, & Distribution:
     Like the closely related greater scaup (A. marila), this bird is also known as "bluebill" for the pale blue bill (of the male). Both scaups are diving ducks, the lesser scaup reaching 46 cm (18 in) in length. Adult male lesser scaups have a greyish body with black at both ends and a purplish head. The females are dark brown with a small white patch between the eye and bill. Lesser scaups are widely distributed throughout British Columbia. On the coast it is primarily found on southeastern Vancouver Island and the Fraser Lowlands. They inhabit a wide range of both marine and freshwater habitats.

Upriver Halkomelem Cultural Role(s):
Downriver Halkomelem Cultural Role(s):
Island Halkomelem Cultural Role(s):