: The Arctic Beauty
Basic Description
Steller’s Eider is a magnificent sea duck that belongs to the family of Anatidae. This bird got its name from Georg Wilhelm Steller, who discovered it on his voyage to Alaska in the 18th century. These ducks have an unmistakable beauty with their striking black and white plumage, vivid orange bill, and emerald green nape feathers. Males are easily distinguished by their brighter colors than females.
Where To Find This Bird
The Steller’s Eider is a northern species mostly found along the coasts of Alaska and Russia during the breeding season. During winter, they migrate southwards towards open waters along southern coasts of Greenland and Scandinavia.
Habitat
These birds prefer nesting in tundra habitats close to freshwater lakes or rivers located near the coastline. They build their nests under low shrubs or tall grasses providing shelter from harsh winds while maintaining visibility for potential predators.
Food
Stellers Eiders are omnivorous birds that feed on both marine animals like mollusks, crustaceans as well as plant material such as algae, seeds, berries depending upon availability in different seasons.
Cool Facts
– Unlike most other ducks that molt once per year after breeding season ends, Stellers molts twice annually.
– Compared to other sea ducks which dive deeper into water for food hunting; these eiders feed more frequently at shallow depths up-to 30 meters below surface.
– Females lay around six eggs each year weighing about 50 grams each which hatch after about four weeks incubation period.
– These beautiful ducks have been listed as threatened species due to loss of habitat caused by climate change leading to rising temperatures melting ice caps disrupting ecosystems they depend upon for survival.
In summary,
Steller’s Eider is a remarkable species of sea duck that stands out with its striking colors and beauty. These birds thrive in the Arctic tundra during breeding season, feed mostly in shallow waters and are listed as threatened due to habitat loss caused by climate change. Their unique molting cycle and nesting habits add to their charm, making them an incredible sight for bird enthusiasts around the world.
