Common Eider

Somateria mollissima

The Common Eider is the largest duck in the northern hemisphere; an adult weighs 1300–2660 grams (2.8–5.9 lbs) and is 50–71 cm (20–28 in.) long. Males are somewhat larger than females; size varies among races. The eider is a heavy-bodied sea duck with a relatively short, stout neck and a distinctive long, triangular (wedge-shaped) bill. There are four identified subspecies of Common Eider in North America.

Species Knowledge Summary and Information Needs

Sea Duck Information Series Fact Sheet [PDF]

Pacific Common Eider [PDF]

Northern Common Eider [PDF]

Hudson Bay Common Eider [PDF]

American Common Eider [PDF]

Aerial Identification video

Common Eider Photo Gallery