ML645080799

Observation details

“MEGA” I received a call from Matt who then sent a photo taken by Chad Remley. Called Terry and we rushed out to the lake. It was right off the rocks when we arrived. Was able to get some nice photos. Brown female sea duck with a large split bill that had an upper portion and lower portion. The central feathers do not reach the nostril which is a King feature. Common Eiders have the central feathers reaching the nostril. Lower portion of bill forms a bit of a smile. Pattern of scapulars dark centered with rufous edges. Roundish head with dark eye that has a lighter eyering. Pattern on chest has dark stripes on brownish base color. Flanks have dark streaks but not quite the chevrons I see in other photos of King Eider. Molt? Told it was seen three days ago but they were not sure what it was. Great photos by Chad helped get everyone excited about it. Last King Eider seen in Kansas was November 27th, 1947 just a few miles away on the Kansas River!