Common Eider (Somateria mollissima), North Hampton, NH. December 3rd, 2004.

This male Common Eider was associating with the same party of five birds (two males, three females) and presumed to be S.m.dresseri.  In comparison to the orange-billed male it showed a more typical head and bill profile, and appeared to have a longer bill. The bill lobes, while rounded were rather narrow compared to the first male in the group. The bill lobes appeared olive toned, but sometimes showed a very dull orange tone in certain lights. Again, the differences in bill shape and color were most evident when both birds were alongside each other. This male also had less pointed ‘sails’ than the first bird.

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