Atlantic Puffin

The Atlantic puffin, known scientifically as Fratercula arctica, is a charismatic seabird with a stout build and distinctive coloring. It is the sole puffin species native to the Atlantic Ocean, with its Pacific counterparts being the tufted and horned puffins. The bird's plumage is primarily black and white, with a striking beak that showcases a bold palette of red, orange, and grey hues. During the breeding season, the beak's colors intensify, and it is complemented by orange legs that provide a vivid contrast to the bird's body.

Identification Tips

Adult Atlantic puffins are identifiable by their black crown and back, pale grey cheek patches, and white underparts. The beak is broad and triangular, with a bright orange-red tip and a slate grey base, separated by a yellow chevron. The legs and webbed feet are a brilliant orange. Juveniles share a similar plumage but have darker cheek patches and a less colorful beak and legs.

Habitat

Atlantic puffins are found in marine environments, favoring rocky cliffs and islands for breeding. They spend the majority of their lives at sea, only coming ashore to nest.

Distribution

The species breeds across the North Atlantic, from the coasts of Europe and North America to the Arctic fringes. Notable populations are found in Iceland, Norway, Greenland, and eastern Canada. In winter, they roam the open ocean, sometimes reaching as far south as the Mediterranean and North Carolina.

Behaviour

Puffins are social birds, breeding in large colonies on cliffs. They are adept swimmers, using their wings to 'fly' underwater while hunting for fish. On land, they exhibit a waddling gait and are known for their burrowing behavior, digging tunnels in which to lay their eggs.

Song & Calls

While silent at sea, Atlantic puffins make a variety of sounds on land, including a growling noise in their burrows that has been likened to a revving chainsaw.

Breeding

Puffins are monogamous and return to the same burrow each year to breed. They lay a single white egg in a burrow or crevice, which both parents incubate. Chicks are fed primarily on whole fish and fledge after about six weeks.

Similar Species

The Atlantic puffin can be confused with other auk species, but its distinctive beak coloration during the breeding season sets it apart.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Atlantic puffin is predominantly fish, such as sand eels, herring, and capelin. They are skilled hunters, diving and 'flying' underwater to catch their prey.

Conservation status

The IUCN lists the Atlantic puffin as Vulnerable due to rapid declines in parts of its range. Threats include predation, habitat loss, pollution, overfishing, and climate change. Conservation efforts are underway in various regions to protect and restore puffin populations.