Atlantic Puffin
Fratercula arctica
Overview
The Atlantic puffin is a small seabird in the auk family. It is known as the 'sea parrot' due to its colorful beak during the breeding season.
Fun Fact
Puffins shed the colorful outer parts of their bills after mating season, leaving a smaller, duller beak for winter.
Physical Characteristics
Black and white plumage, orange legs, and a large, multi-colored beak (orange, yellow, blue).
Behavior & Ecology
They fly with very fast wing beats (up to 400 per minute) and are excellent divers.
Diet & Hunting Strategy
They catch small fish like herring, hake, and sand eels, holding up to a dozen crosswise in their beak at once.
Reproduction & Life Cycle
They excavate burrows in the soil on cliff tops and lay a single egg.
Human Interaction
A major tourist attraction in Iceland and the UK. Historically hunted for meat and eggs.
FAQ
What is the scientific name of the Atlantic Puffin?
The scientific name of the Atlantic Puffin is Fratercula arctica.
Where does the Atlantic Puffin live?
Open ocean for most of the year; breeds on coastal cliffs in the North Atlantic.
What does the Atlantic Puffin eat?
Carnivore (Piscivore). They catch small fish like herring, hake, and sand eels, holding up to a dozen crosswise in their beak at once.
How long does the Atlantic Puffin live?
The lifespan of the Atlantic Puffin is approximately 20 years..
