 |
 |
|
|
|
|
The small but striking Steller's eider is the rarest of the four eider species that breed on the North Slope of Alaska (the along with common eiders, king eiders, and spectacled eiders). Although not as colorful as the other species, Steller's have bold black and white markings with blue highlights and rusty-orange bellies. As with other eiders, female Steller's eiders, which must incubate eggs on the open tundra, are camouflaged brown. These birds were all photographed near the coastal town of Barrow, Alaska. Although uncommon, they were quite confiding, especially when approached from the water (chest waders were a big help). |
|
|
|
