Common Eider

The Common Eider, Somateria mollissima, is a large sea duck, which is distributed over the northern coasts of Europe, North America and eastern Siberia. It breeds in Arctic and some northern temperate regions, but winters somewhat further south in temperate zones, when it can form large flocks on suitable coastal waters.

The nest is built close to the sea, and is lined with the celebrated eiderdown, plucked from the female's breast. This soft and warm lining was harvested for filling pillows and quilts, but has been largely replaced by synthetic alternatives.

It is characterised by its bulky shape and large wedge-shaped bill. the male is unmistakable with its black-and-white plumage and green nape. The female is a brown bird, but can still be readily distinguished from all ducks except other eider species on size and head shape. This duck's call is a pleasant "ah-ooo", described as being "like a bunch of gossipy old women, expressing surprise". This species is often readily approachable.

Drakes of the European, eastern North American and Asia/western North American races can be distinguished by minor plumage differences.

This species dives for crustaceans and molluscs, with mussels being a favoured food.