Common Eider

🔍 Overview

Britain’s heaviest duck, more common in northern UK but occasionally seen off Sussex coasts. Scarce winter visitor and passage migrant; very scarce non-breeder in summer.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Male: Bold black and white plumage with green nape

Female: Mottled brown, heavy build

Other: Long, sloping bill

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Infrequent offshore visitor, usually seen during seawatches at Shoreham Harbour, Worthing Beaches, and Brighton Marina, especially November–March.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Males produce a soft, comical “ah-oooh” call. Often in small groups, diving for molluscs.