The black scoter and common scoter have diagnosably distinct vocalisations. There are a number of differing characteristics of Stejneger's scoter and the white-winged scoter. It was formerly considered to be conspecific with the white-winged scoter. Black scoter and common scoter have diagnosably distinct vocalisations. The surf scoter mainly feeds on benthic invertebrates. Wildlife include migrating jaegers, scoter, grebe, and Brant goose. The female is a brown bird with pale cheeks, very similar to female common scoter. The female is a brown bird with pale cheeks, very similar to female black scoter. There are a number of differing characteristics of the Stejneger's scoter and the white-winged scoter. The surf scoter was then moved in the Melanitta genus. The black scoter or American scoter ("Melanitta americana") is a large sea duck, in length. The surf scoter ("Melanitta perspicillata") is a large sea duck native to North America. The white-winged scoter ("Melanitta deglandi") is a large sea duck. The surf scoter winters in marine habitats near the shore. Surf scoter usually captures its food underwater and consumes it whole.