Landscape (UK)

birds with saintly protection

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At this time of year, sea-going eider ducks are beginning their courtship rituals. During the breeding season, from late April, they are most commonly found from the Northumber­land coast northwards, and on the west coast of Scotland. Pied coloured with a blush breast, males seeking a mate throw back their heads and give ‘ooeer’ calls. The female will sit on a clutch of up to five eggs for 25-28 days. In Northumber­land, eiders are known as cuddy ducks, or Cuthbert’s ducks. The name comes from 7th century prior, St Cuthbert. After arriving on Inner Farne in 676, St Cuthbert laid down decrees protecting the island’s birds, including eider ducks.

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