North American diving duck returns to Irish shores
A North American duck, the Lesser Scaup, has been spotted in Donegal today and on Sunday, marking its first appearance on Irish shores since April.
Between late September 2024 and early April 2025, there were 135 recorded sightings of the diving duck across Ireland, underscoring its role as a notable wintering species.
Typically found in freshwater or slightly brackish habitats, the bird is native to North America and only occasionally reaches Europe as a vagrant.
Observers in Donegal reported seeing the bird at Lough Swilly, noting its distinctive black head and neck, sleek profile, and white wing bar.
The Lesser Scaup is often confused with the more familiar Tufted Duck, but careful observation of its shape, plumage, and bill confirms its identity.
While not considered endangered, the Lesser Scaup’s return highlights Ireland’s importance as a wintering ground for rare and vagrant species.
