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Birds
Common eider
Common eider · Somateria mollissima
Discover the common eider, a majestic coastal bird species with fascinating characteristics.
Fact file
- Size
- Common eiders reach a body length of 60 to 70 cm and weigh between 1.5 and 2.5 kg.
- Males and females
- Male common eiders have striking black and white plumage and a green head, while females are brown in colour.
- Sounds
- Common eiders make soft squeaking and quacking sounds.
- Diet
- They feed mainly on molluscs, crustaceans and ancient plants near the coast.
- Offspring
- The female lays between 4 and 6 eggs, which hatch after an incubation period of 28 days.
How to identify Common eider
The common eider has characteristic plumage with striking colouration. Males have black and white plumage and a green head, while females are more brownish in colour with a streaked pattern.
With a size of around 60–70 cm and a weight of 1.5–2.5 kg, the common eider is one of the largest duck species in Europe. Its broad body and thick neck give it a distinctive appearance.
More in the app
With Wildful Stories+ you also get in the app:
- general viewing tips
Where Common eider live
Discover Common eider on your trip.
The app shows you where and when to see wildlife along your route.
