BUCKET-LIST BIRDS
From blue grouse to sandhill cranes to woodcock, these 10 species are more than worthy of any wingshooter’s attention
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Head down east for a chance to hunt eiders (photo: Mark Boyce)#4 EIDERS
The common eider is the largest duck in Canada, while the king eider is arguably our most beautiful and distinctive. So, why don’t we hear more about hunting these birds? Mostly because they’re relatively uncommon, sticking pretty close to their coastal marine environments. As well, hunting them requires specialized gear and tactics.
Late last summer when I was in Nunavut, I saw my first king eiders, spectacularly coloured drakes flying low over the waves. Unfortunately, the season wouldn’t open for another few weeks, so I was left to only wish and wonder. Nunavut is undoubtedly the best place in Canada to find kings, but access is expensive and daunting. I’m also not aware of any established guiding operations that specialize in them.
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The best opportunity would be on the East Coast, particularly in Newfoundland, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, where hunting for common eiders is popular, and the occasional king is found among the flocks. I’ve yet to shoot either species, but rest assured they’ll remain on my must-do list until I do.