AMERICAN BLACK SCOTER in Aberdeen

Paul Baxter and I had the the drake NORTH AMERICAN BLACK SCOTER at low tide this morning, in the same area described by Nick last night south of the Murcar clubhouse. It flew in at 0505 and we watched it for about 15 minutes in amongst the main Common Scoter flock - it really stood out, a smashing bird. The scoter flock then spooked and we hadnt relocated it by the time I left at around 0550 - Nick Littlewood and Chris Gibbins had just arrived on site, although light conditions were becoming more difficult. At least 3 Surf Scoters in the flock too, including the 1s drake, but surprisingly few Velvets this morning and no sign of the deglandi. However there were many more birds further out and to the north (Ian Broadbent)