COMMON EIDER
Somateria mollissima
DESCRIPTION
The Common Eider is a large sea duck known for its distinctive appearance and behavior. It is characterized by its soft down feathers, which are highly valued for insulation.
FUN FACTS
- Common Eiders are known for their soft down feathers, which are used in high-quality bedding | They can dive to depths of over 20 meters in search of food | The species has a unique courtship display involving head bobbing and vocalizations
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild
Average Weight1.5-2.5 kg
Average Length50-65 cm
Diet TypePiscivore
Social Structuregroup — often seen in large flocks
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (April-June)
- Habitat
- Common Eiders inhabit coastal areas, particularly in the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. They are often found in shallow waters and near islands.
- Biomes
- Marine, Coastal
- Native Range
- The native range of the Common Eider includes the northern coasts of North America, Europe, and Asia.
- Continent
- North America, Europe, Asia
- Countries
- Canada, United States, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia
- Diet
- Common Eiders primarily feed on marine invertebrates, particularly mollusks and crustaceans. They dive underwater to forage for food.
- Diet Type
- Piscivore
- Favorite Food
- mollusks, crustaceans
- Social Structure
- group — often seen in large flocks
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 20-100
- Territorial
- 0
LC
LC
1.5-2.5 kg
Weight
50-65 cm
Length
- Coloration
- Males are predominantly white with a black crown and green nape, while females are mottled brown.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males and females have distinct coloration.
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 4-6
- Sexual Maturity
- 2-3 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (April-June)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable, but local declines have been observed in some areas.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 1,000,000-2,000,000
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat loss, climate change, and hunting. Oil spills and pollution also pose risks to their coastal habitats.
- Predators
- foxes, gulls, eagles
- Defense Mechanisms
- Common Eiders often rely on their ability to dive and swim away from predators.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon