Polysticta stelleri ORDER: ANSERIFORMES FAMILY: ANATIDAE
IUCN Conservation Status: Vulnerable
© Mike Danzenbaker
The smallest eider, the Steller's Eider is restricted to northern latitudes where it breeds in freshwater tundra ponds. It spends the rest of the year in shallow marine waters. Birders rarely see it outside of Alaskan waters.
Generally quiet. Females in winter flocks make a rapid, guttural rippling call. Also growling calls. Wings whistle in flight.