Eiders are large sea ducks belonging to the genus Somateria, typically found in the northern regions of North America, Europe, and eastern Siberia. The name "eiders" refers not only to the ducks themselves but also to their down feathers, which are highly valued for their warmth and insulation properties.
These ducks are characterized by their striking appearance, featuring contrasting black and white plumage, with some species exhibiting additional shades of gray or brown. The males, known as drakes, possess a distinct coloration during the breeding season, which differs from the relatively duller plumage of the females, called hens. Eiders have stout bodies, relatively long necks, and strong, slightly hooked bills.
Eiders are primarily marine ducks and are found in coastal regions, where they feed on a diet consisting mainly of mollusks, crustaceans, and other marine invertebrates. They are skilled divers, capable of diving to considerable depths to forage for their prey.
Their down feathers, widely known as eiderdown, are renowned for their exceptional insulating properties. Eiderdown is highly sought after and has been used historically in the making of high-quality bedding and clothing, particularly for its ability to retain heat while remaining lightweight and breathable.
Due to the desirability of their down and the gradual loss of their coastal habitats, some eider species have faced population declines and are now subject to conservation efforts.
