Selecting Stunning Common Eider Mounts for Decor

The Appeal of Common Eider Mounts

So why might you want to showcase a handsome common eider drake (Somateria mollissima) in your living room or den? Here are some top reasons these waterfowl make for compelling mounts:

• Their elegant coloring and patterns stand out in a room
• They represent the rugged northern habitats the species inhabits
• They serve as reminders of special hunting memories and experiences
• They can become unique conversation pieces

Vibrant Features of the Males

The most colorful mounts are generally of male common eider ducks, with their bold black-and-white plumage and hazelnut-hued flanks. During the spring breeding season, the drakes sport even more magnificent feathers and sophisticated patterning to attract females. Their white faces become even purer, the greenish black feathers on their heads and necks take on a healthy iridescent sheen, and their beak transitions to a brighter orange hue.

Subtle Beauty of the Females

Female common eiders, also called hens, have their own understated beauty: feathers in various warm browns, accented delicately with black and white. The intricacy can best be appreciated up close. While the drakes tend to get more attention, a hen common eider mount can lend a refined grace to an interior.

Choosing a Common Eider Taxidermy Specialist

Not all taxidermists will have experience mounting waterfowl in general, let alone common eiders specifically. When selecting who to trust your eider with, look for the following:

• A strong artistic portfolio specializing in waterfowl
• Knowledge of common eider anatomy and feathers
• Skill capturing unique eider plumage features
• Careful handling of specimens from harvest to finished product
• A good reputation for excellence and service

Reasonable Cost for Quality Results

Common eider mounts can vary widely in price due to size options and poses. On average, expect to invest $400-$800 or more for a professional shoulder mount preserving your eider's distinct characteristics. The extra cost helps fund top-tier materials, many meticulous hours of labor, and specialized techniques for gorgeous feather detail.

Realism in Form, Color, and Stance

Ideally the taxidermist will accurately replicate the duck's body structure, as well as vibrant feather hues and patterns unique to your harvested male or female. Poses like resting positions showcase the duck up close, while flying presentations mount the bird at a distance, suspended dynamically in mid-air.

Displaying Your Eider Mount Proudly at Home

A common eider shoulder or pedestal mount isn't like bland mass-produced decor; it's a custom-crafted, natural art piece reflecting personal memories. There are many creative options for putting your mount front-and-center at home:

• On a fireplace mantel or shelves over the mantle
• As part of a nautical-themed room or coastal cottage decor
• Grouped artfully with other waterfowl mounts as a focal wall grouping
• Suspended from ceilings or rafters with fishing line or clear acrylic supports
• Enclosed securely under glass domes to protect delicate feathers

Lighting Showcases Subtle Properties

Properly lighting your common eider mount highlights feathers and facial details that might otherwise go unnoticed. Backlighting illuminates fine structures to stand out in silhouette. Display case lighting or downward spotlights pick up iridescence and other lustrous specialized feather features.

Spin Scenic Narratives Through Mounts

Being creative with habitat dioramas under and around your eider allows you to embed tales of adventure. Recreate driftwood, rocks, grasses, shells, and other coastal or tundra elements from where you bagged your ducks to reminisce each time you pass by the mount. Change up mini-scenes seasonally for variety.

Preserving Prized Memories and Meaning

For avid waterfowl hunters, a handsome common eider mount commemorates special times afield during open season pursuing these striking sea ducks. In addition to recalling personal stories, the mount can recount meaningful statistics:

• Date and location of the harvest
• Unique circumstances around bagging your duck
• Companions and dogs alongside you that day

Pass Down Treasured Heirlooms

A common eider mount can endure for generations as a cherished heirloom passed down to children or relatives. The memories, symbolism, and history literally live on for decades through this show-stopping form of decor.

Trade Hunt Recollections with Guests

Lastly, a conversation-worthy eider mount hung prominently acts as a social catalyst for trading stories with friends. Guests will inquire about your hunting escapades, letting you relive exciting moments out in the marshlands and coastlines pursuing your prize ducks.

FAQs

Where are the best places to hunt common eiders?

The prime locations to hunt common eiders are along northern coastal areas and islands including Alaska, Canada, Maine, the Great Lakes region, Scandinavian countries, Russia, Greenland, and Iceland.

What size are most common eider mounts?

A typical common eider mount measures around 18-22 inches long by 12-15 inches wide. Dimensions vary based on the size of the actual duck specimen harvested and pose choice.

How long does a common eider mount last?

With proper care and maintenance, a professionally crafted common eider mount can endure for generations, often over 50 years or more before extensive restoration is needed.

Do I need special permits to hunt common eiders?

You will need valid state and federal waterfowl stamps, and sometimes additional permits or licenses, to legally harvest common eiders during hunting season. Regulations vary across different regions.