Spectacled Eider Management and Research

Management

Spectacled eiders are currently listed as a Threatened species under the Endangered Species Act and protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, both of which are implemented by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The State of Alaska retains trust responsibilities over this species and is actively engaged in the management, conservation, and regulation of spectacled eiders and their habitat.

Research

There are several research projects on spectacled eiders underway. One project is designed to determine winter habitat and the causes of the population decline. This study uses satellite transmitters to track the birds to identify molting and feeding areas in the Bering Sea. Another project studies the impacts of lead shot poisoning and environmental contaminants on the eiders.