- Ordinarily considered a sea
duck, these ducks frequent both US coasts and the Great Lakes,
and sometimes can be found in northern inland waters during the
breeding season. Drakes are primarily black in coloration and
hens dark brown. This decoy has a brownish tint that doesn't
show well in the photo, so it could be either sex. It is an exceptional
likeness of a scoter and has a piece of leather in its bill simulating
underwater vegetation, which they sometimes eat, although their
primary diet consists of mollusks and crustaceans. Scoters are
diving ducks and feed along the bottom. They typically travel
in large flocks in the fall and winter, and are hunted regularly
along US coasts, although we can attest to the fact that they
are not prime dining fare. This decoy was part of our personal
decoy collection for many years. Measures 16" from
tip of bill to tip of tail. Head and neck are inset and
pegged in place through top of head, typical of Maine and some
Nova Scotia decoys. However, nails were later added to re-secure
it. Eyes are carved. Has some old working repaint and some that
looks original. Initials "HL" carved in bottom. Old
iron anchor line-tie approx. 7" long. Very sculptural form.
Probably dates to early 20th century or even late 19th. An old
survivor in exceptional condition. (BS-6)
$545
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