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Eiderdown refers to the soft, insulating feathers from eider ducks, large sea ducks native to the cold far north. The female duck plucks these feathers from her breast to line her nest and keep her eggs warm. This down is highly valued for its warmth and lightness, making it an ideal filling for items like jackets, pillows, quilts, and sleeping bags. In some regions, like Iceland, eiderdown is harvested sustainably from nests without harming the breeding cycle. The term "eiderdown" can also refer to a comforter filled with these feathers or a soft, lightweight fabric.123

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