Rhinoceros auklet

Cerorhinca monocerata

The rhinoceros auklet (Cerorhinca monocerata) is a seabird and a close relative of the puffins.

Family: Alcidae Order: Charadriiformes Conservation: Least Concern

About the Rhinoceros auklet

The rhinoceros auklet (Cerorhinca monocerata) is a seabird and a close relative of the puffins. It is the only extant species of the genus Cerorhinca. Given its close relationship with the puffins, the common name rhinoceros puffin has been proposed for the species. It ranges widely across the North Pacific, feeding on small fish and nesting in colonies. Its name is derived from a horn-like extension of the beak (the anatomic term for this extension is the rhamphotheca). This horn is only present in breeding adults, and like the elaborate sheath on the bill of puffins is shed every year. This horn also possesses fluorescent properties, which is likely involved in reproductive signalling. The rhinoceros auklet (also known as the rhino auklet, horn-billed puffin, or unicorn puffin), is a med

Fun Facts About Rhinoceros auklet

This horn is only present in breeding adults, and like the elaborate sheath on the bill of puffins is shed every year.
The plumage is dark on top and paler below; breeding adults (both male and female) possess white plumes above the eyes and behind the bill.
Males are slightly larger than females (about 10% in mass).
It ranges widely across the North Pacific, feeding on small fish and nesting in colonies.
It is the only extant species of the genus Cerorhinca.

Conservation Status

The Rhinoceros auklet is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. This species is currently stable and not at significant risk of population decline.

View on IUCN Red List →

Taxonomy & Classification

Order	Charadriiformes
Family	Alcidae
Genus	Cerorhinca
Species	Cerorhinca monocerata

Range & Habitat