Wildlife

Eider Duck Welfare and Coastal Conservation

The eider is the largest UK duck and breeds on coastal islands and headlands in Scotland, with the female famous for plucking down from her own breast to line the nest.

Key Facts

UK population concentrated in Scotland particularly Orkney and Shetland
Females pluck their own breast down to line the nest and keep eggs warm
Avian influenza has caused significant mortality in eider colonies
Highly gregarious in winter forming large rafts offshore
Marine pollution and oil spills cause significant mortality

Welfare Considerations

Eider welfare is threatened by avian influenza which has caused mass mortality events at Scottish colonies, marine pollution particularly oil spills, and disturbance at breeding sites. The down plucking behaviour makes females physically vulnerable during incubation. Protected nesting sites with minimal disturbance are critical during the breeding season.

What You Can Do

Support BTO seabird monitoring at eider colonies
Advocate for marine pollution prevention particularly oil spill response
Keep dogs on leads near coastal nesting areas during spring
Report any suspected avian influenza mortality to DEFRA
Support RSPB Scotland island reserve management for nesting seabirds