Atlantic puffin
Fratercula arctica
The Atlantic puffin (Fratercula arctica), also known as the common puffin, is a species of seabird in the auk family.
About the Atlantic puffin
The Atlantic puffin (Fratercula arctica), also known as the common puffin, is a species of seabird in the auk family. It is the only puffin native to the Atlantic Ocean; two related species, the tufted puffin and the horned puffin, are found in the northeastern Pacific. The Atlantic puffin breeds in Russia, Iceland, Ireland, Britain, Norway, Greenland, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and the Faroe Islands, and as far south as Maine in the west and France in the east. It is most commonly found in the Westman Islands, Iceland. Although it has a large population and a wide range, the species has declined rapidly, at least in parts of its range, resulting in it being rated as vulnerable by the IUCN. On land, it has the typical upright stance of an auk. At sea, it swims on the surface a
Fun Facts About Atlantic puffin
- It is the only puffin native to the Atlantic Ocean; two related species, the tufted puffin and the horned puffin, are found in the northeastern Pacific.
- The puffin's striking appearance, large, colourful bill, waddling gait, and behaviour have given rise to nicknames such as "clown of the sea" or "sea parrot".
- The juvenile has similar plumage, but its cheek patches are dark grey.
- The juvenile does not have brightly coloured head ornamentation, its bill is narrower and is dark grey with a yellowish-brown tip, and its legs and feet are also dark.
- The external appearances of the adult male and female are identical, though the male is usually slightly larger.
Conservation Status
The Atlantic puffin is classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. This species faces threats that could impact its population if conservation measures are not maintained.
Taxonomy & Classification
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Alcidae |
| Genus | Fratercula |
| Species | Fratercula arctica |
Range & Habitat
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Other species in the Alcidae family: