Scoter (Edemia), a genus of oceanic ducks, represented on British coasts by the Common Scoter (E. nigra), the larger Velvet Scoter (E. fusca), and occasionally by the North American Surf Scoter (E. perspicillata). In
North America E. americana is widely distributed. The Common Black Scoter is about the size of the common duck. The whole plumage of the male is deep black; that of the female is dark brown. They are abundant in winter on many parts of the British coast, but most migrate in spring to northern Scandinavia, Russia, and Siberia. They usually nest by inland fresh-water lakes. They feed on molluscs. The flesh is oily, and has a fishy taste, but, being therefore permitted to Roman Catholics during Lent, is in great request in some countries.