Mitchell, C. A., and Carlson, J., 1993, Lesser scaup forage on zebra mussels at Cook
Nuclear Plant, Michigan: Journal Of Field Ornithology, v. 64, no. 2, p. 219-222.

Abstract

Nineteen of 21 Lesser Scaup (Aythya affinis) entrained while foraging at the water
intake structures of Cook Nuclear Plant, Bridgman, Michigan had consumed zebra
mussels (Dreissena polymorpha). The average number of zebra mussels in the upper
gastrointestinal tract was 260; maximum number was 987. Migrating Lesser Scaup
found this new food source during the first winter following settlement of zebra
mussels on the water intake structures of the power plant.

Keywords

Aythya-affinis, foraging-behavior, Dreissena-polymorpha, food-consumption,
USA,-Michigan, aquatic-birds, predation, fouling-organisms