Species Profile
Eider
Somateria mollissima
Quick Facts
Conservation
NTNear ThreatenedLifespan
15–20 years
Length
50–71 cm
Weight
1200–3000 g
Wingspan
80–108 cm
Migration
Partial migrant
Also known as: Common Eider
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Appearance
The Eider is a large sea duck with a distinctive wedge-shaped bill. Males in breeding plumage have a striking black and white colouration with a pale green nape and a pinkish tinge on the breast.
Females are brown with a barred pattern, blending well with their environment. Both sexes have a sloping forehead profile.
In winter, males moult into a mottled brown plumage similar to females but retain some white feathers.
Identification & Characteristics
Male Colors
- Primary
- Black
- Secondary
- Green
- Beak
- Green
- Legs
- Green
Female Colors
- Primary
- Brown
- Secondary
- Buff
- Beak
- Green
- Legs
- Green
Female Markings
Barred plumage pattern
Attributes
Understanding Attributes
Rated 0–100 based on research and observation. A score of 50 is average across all bird species. These attributes are relative and don't necessarily indicate superiority.
Habitat & Distribution
Eiders inhabit coastal marine environments across the northern hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Siberia. They prefer cold, shallow waters near rocky shores and islands.
In winter, they may move further south along coastlines. Significant populations can be found in coastal areas of Canada, Alaska, Scotland, and Scandinavia, with some reaching as far south as the northeastern United States.
Distribution
Where to See This Bird
Explore regional guides for locations where this bird has been recorded.
Diet
Eiders primarily feed on molluscs, especially blue mussels, which they swallow whole and crush in their gizzards. They also consume crustaceans, sea urchins, and small fish. Diving to depths of up to 20 meters, they use their strong bills to pry shellfish from rocks.
Behaviour
Eiders are highly social birds, often seen in large flocks on coastal waters. They dive for food, using their wings to propel themselves underwater.
During the breeding season, females form dense colonies on coastal islands, while males gather in separate groups nearby.
Calls & Sounds
Male Eiders produce a distinctive, soft cooing call during courtship, often described as 'ah-ooo'. This sound carries well over water. Females make a low, grating 'grog-grog' call. In flight, both sexes may emit short grunting noises.
Nesting & Breeding
Eiders form pairs in late winter and spring. Females return to their natal areas to breed, often on small islands or coastal headlands.
Nests are built on the ground, lined with vegetation and the famous eider down. Females typically lay 4-6 olive-green eggs.
Incubation lasts about 26 days and is carried out solely by the female. Ducklings leave the nest within 24 hours of hatching and are often tended by groups of females in crèches.
Conservation
Currently listed as Near Threatened globally, Eider populations face threats from oil spills, over-harvesting of eggs and down, and climate change impacts on Arctic breeding grounds. Conservation efforts focus on protecting breeding colonies and managing hunting practices.
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for Eiders in coastal areas, especially rocky shores and islands
- Listen for the male's distinctive cooing call during breeding season
- Observe large flocks in winter months in northern coastal regions
- Use a spotting scope to view distant rafts of birds on the water
Did You Know?
- Eider down, collected from nests, is prized for its insulating properties in high-end clothing and bedding.
- Female Eiders lose up to 45% of their body weight during egg-laying and incubation.
- Eiders can dive to depths of over 20 meters to forage for food.
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