Ducks, geese, and swans · Waterfowl
Common Eider
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Somateria mollissima
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Voice
Call
Doug Hynes
How to recognize it
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Very large, bulky sea duck; short neck, big head, wedge-shaped bill
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Male: mostly white, black cap, greenish nape, black belly
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Female: brown overall, bulky with a large head; flies low over water with deep wingbeats
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Male call: low, guttural “ah-ooo”; female: hoarse quacks
About the species
The common eider is a large sea duck with a heavy, bulky look and a solid, compact build. On land it moves awkwardly and wades along in a rolling way, while on water it seems much more at home.
It is usually noticed by its calm, low way of moving close to the shore and by its low flight over the water. In the breeding season the male becomes very animated, showing off with a deep cooing call, while the female gives a low quack; outside that time, it is usually quiet.
It lives along rocky coasts, small islands, and shallow marine edges where mussels and other bottom-dwelling food are available. It dives for shellfish and other sea creatures, and in winter it stays in coastal waters, often gathering in large flocks.
Where to find
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Along seawalls, breakwaters, and stone piers — foraging in small groups by diving for mussels and other shellfish, then bobbing low on the water.
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Near docks and jetties — drakes give a deep, hoarse “ah-ooo” call, easiest to catch on calm mornings.
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In quiet coves and by bridge supports or rocky embankments — after a dive it often resurfaces close to shore and stays very low on the waves.
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On small coastal islets and open rocky shorelines — in breeding season, females sit extremely tight on the nest, barely moving at the water’s edge.
You might also see
Sources
- eBird — Somateria mollissima Sightings map and full description on eBird
- Wikipedia — Common eider Encyclopedia article