sea duck

Thân thiện

A sea duck dives into the ocean waves to catch a fish.

Definition

Noun: A type of large diving duck, typically found in coastal marine environments. Sea ducks are characterized by their ability to dive and swim underwater to feed, often on mollusks, crustaceans, and other aquatic prey. They are distinct from dabbling ducks, which feed primarily on the water's surface.

Usage

The term "sea duck" is used to categorize and describe ducks that are ecologically adapted to saltwater or brackish coastal habitats. It is a common name, not a strict taxonomic classification.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The biologist studied the migration patterns of the sea duck.
  • We spotted several sea ducks, including eiders and scoters, bobbing in the waves.
  • The cold northern coasts are important wintering grounds for many species of sea duck.

Advanced Usage

• Collective Reference: The term is often used in plural or collective forms to discuss groups or populations.
  • Conservation efforts are crucial for declining sea duck populations.

Variants and Related Words

• Eider: A specific type of sea duck known for its soft down.
• Scoter: A dark-plumaged sea duck.
• Merganser: A fish-eating sea duck with a slender, serrated bill.
• Diving duck: A broader category that includes sea ducks and some freshwater species.

Synonyms

• Marine duck
• Diving duck (in a coastal context)

Related Phrases

• Sea duck hunting: The regulated hunting of these waterfowl.
• Sea duck habitat: The coastal marine environments they inhabit.

Học thuật

Noun

1. any of various large diving ducks found along the seacoast: eider; scoter; merganser