King Eider
Image: gordsheard (cc-by-nc)
NameKing Eider
Common NameKing Eider
Scientific NameSomateria spectabilis
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)94
Length (cm)60
Weight (g)1700
Plumage DetailsAdult males have a distinctive pale blue-gray crown and nape, pale green cheeks, and a prominent orange frontal shield on the bill bordered by black. Their body is primarily black with a white breast and white patches on the back. Females are mottled brown overall.
Vocalization / CallMales produce a soft, cooing 'hoo-hoo-hooo' sound during courtship displays. Females typically have a harsher, croaking call.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsarctic tundra, coastal marine waters, rocky coasts
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in the Arctic tundra across North America, Greenland, Europe, and Asia. Winters in ice-free coastal marine waters, primarily along the coasts of Alaska, Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, and Russia.
Identifying Featureslarge size, male's distinctive orange frontal shield on bill, male's pale blue-gray crown and nape, male's white breast and black body, wedge-shaped bill
Description
The King Eider is a large sea duck found in Arctic regions, known for its deep-diving capabilities to forage for marine invertebrates. Males display a striking and unique head plumage, making them easily identifiable among other sea ducks.
