King Eider
photo by Phil Swanson
Somateria spectabilis
L 22″(56 cm).
Song or calls:
Usually quiet. Males, various coos. Females, loud hollow “gog a-gog_gog.”
Description: White head, neck, and breast. Black back. Bill has orange swelling at base of upper mandible, pale green below eye, and gray cap. Female is brown, with V-shaped markings on side. First winter male has a brown head.
Habitat: Breeds on arctic tundra. Winters on both coasts.
Where in Nebraska: Accidental in fall. Was photographed at DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge in 1985.
Field Notes: Full adult plumage is not attained until the fourth winter.
Fun Facts: King Eiders can dive up to 150 feet underwater.