White Wing Scoter Decoy

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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