Atlantic puffins are fascinating seabirds, often recognized by their colorful beaks and unique behaviors. Found primarily in the North Atlantic, these small birds are known for their impressive diving skills and their ability to adapt to various marine environments.
What makes Atlantic puffins particularly intriguing are their intelligent and sometimes quirky behaviors. This article explores 21 weird and interesting facts about these remarkable birds, offering a glimpse into their lives both in the air and underwater.
1) Puffins can carry multiple fish in their beaks
Atlantic puffins are well-known for their impressive ability to carry multiple fish in their beaks simultaneously. This fascinating feeding behavior allows them to bring back substantial amounts of food to their chicks in one trip.
A puffin’s beak is specially adapted for this task. It has spiny structures called papillae on its upper palate which help to grip the fish tightly. This adaptation ensures that the fish do not slip out when the bird is flying or diving.
The average number of fish a puffin can carry is around 10. However, records indicate that they can carry much more. Some exceptional puffins have been recorded carrying up to 62 fish in their beaks at once.
This ability is critical during the breeding season when adult puffins must frequently hunt and return with food to their nesting burrows. By carrying multiple fish at once, puffins maximize their efficiency and increase the survival chances of their offspring.
The variety of fish that puffins catch depends on the availability in their breeding area. Commonly, their diet includes sandeels, herring, and capelin, which are small enough to be easily transported in this manner.
2) Atlantic puffins are also known as “clowns of the sea”
The Atlantic puffin has earned the nickname “clown of the sea” due to its unique and colorful appearance. With a black-and-white body and a large, multicolored bill, it stands out among seabirds. The contrasting colors and markings give it a playful, clown-like look, especially during the breeding season.
In addition to its striking appearance, Atlantic puffins have a comical way of moving. On land, they walk with an amusing waddle, adding to their clownish reputation. Their small wings are used frantically to keep them aloft in flight, resembling a flurry of activity.
The puffin’s behavior also contributes to this nickname. Known to engage in various amusing antics, they exhibit a certain charm that captivates birdwatchers and naturalists alike. They are often seen socializing and congregating in large colonies, adding to the lively and entertaining spectacle.
The combination of their vivid physical traits and entertaining behaviors has solidified the Atlantic puffin’s status as the “clown of the sea.” These characteristics continue to fascinate and delight those who observe them in their natural habitat.
3) Puffins can dive up to 200 feet underwater
Atlantic puffins possess remarkable diving abilities. They can plunge to depths of up to 200 feet beneath the ocean surface. This impressive feat allows them to access a variety of prey found in deeper waters.
Using their wings for propulsion, puffins “fly” through the water with agility. Their webbed feet act as rudders, providing precise steering during their pursuit of small fish like herring and sand eels.
Though they can reach significant depths, puffins generally stay underwater for only 20 to 30 seconds at a time. This brief duration is efficient for capturing prey before they need to return to the surface for air. The ability to dive deep sets puffins apart from many other seabirds.
4) They live in burrows rather than nests
Atlantic Puffins prefer to live in burrows rather than traditional nests. Both males and females participate in digging these burrows, using their bills and feet to excavate the ground. The male often does more of the digging.
These burrows can be found on grassy cliff tops or rocky islands. In rocky areas, they might nest under boulders or within crevices among the rocks.
The interior of the burrow is usually lined with grass, twigs, or other soft materials to make it comfortable for the eggs and chicks. This offers protection from predators and harsh weather conditions.
Living in burrows helps Atlantic Puffins hide their eggs and chicks from potential threats. This nesting strategy provides safety and a stable environment for raising their young.
5) The scientific name for the Atlantic puffin is Fratercula arctica
The Atlantic puffin is scientifically known as Fratercula arctica. This name is rooted in the Latin language.
“Fratercula” translates to “little brother,” which likely refers to the bird’s black-and-white plumage resembling monastic robes. “Arctica” indicates its northern habitat.
Fratercula arctica is the only puffin species native to the Atlantic Ocean. There are two related species located in the Pacific— the tufted puffin and the horned puffin.
The name helps in classifying this bird within the auk family. It distinguishes the Atlantic puffin from other puffins and seabirds.
Renowned for its distinctive appearance, the Atlantic puffin has a multicolored bill and a sharp black-and-white contrast in its feathers. This appearance makes it easily recognizable among bird enthusiasts.
Biologists and ornithologists use the scientific name Fratercula arctica to ensure clear communication and identification in research and documentation.
The naming convention is essential for understanding the species’ behavior, distribution, and conservation status. In professional and academic settings, the term Fratercula arctica is used to avoid any ambiguity.
6) Puffins’ beaks change color during the year
Puffins are well-known for their vibrant beaks, but these colors are not consistent year-round. During the spring and summer, the beaks of Atlantic puffins display bright hues of orange and yellow. This colorful transformation is particularly noticeable during the breeding season.
In contrast, puffins’ beaks turn dull and grey during the winter months. This change occurs as the colorful outer layer of the beak sheds, revealing the more subdued underlying tones.
The seasonal change in beak color coincides with their reproductive cycle. Brightly colored beaks may serve as a signal to potential mates, indicating health and vitality.
When the breeding season ends, the necessity of these vivid displays diminishes. This leads to the return of the muted winter coloration. Thus, the cyclical nature of their beak colors is closely tied to their mating rituals and seasonal behaviors.
7) They can fly up to 55 mph
Atlantic puffins are remarkable fliers. Despite their small, stocky build, they can reach impressive speeds of up to 55 miles per hour. This speed is particularly surprising given their short wings, which are more commonly associated with swimming than speedy flight.
To achieve these speeds, puffins need to flap their wings rapidly. They can flap their wings up to 400 beats per minute. This technique allows them to maintain their swift pace across long distances over the ocean.
While most birds in the auk family tend to stay close to the sea surface, puffins typically cruise at an altitude of around 30 feet. This behavior sets them apart and showcases their unique flying capabilities. The combination of speed, frequent wing flaps, and cruising altitude allows puffins to cover large areas while searching for food.
8) Atlantic puffins are excellent swimmers
Atlantic puffins are adept swimmers, using their wings to navigate underwater efficiently. They maneuver through the water with flipper-like movements, similar to flying.
Their webbed feet act as rudders, providing precise directional control. This aids them in swiftly changing direction while chasing prey.
Puffins can dive to impressive depths, often reaching up to 200 feet. However, they typically stay underwater for about 20 to 30 seconds.
Their primary diet consists of small forage fish, such as herring, sand eels, and capelin. They also consume mollusks and crustaceans.
These birds display remarkable agility underwater, making them effective hunters. Their swimming abilities are crucial for their survival in the harsh marine environment.
9) They often mate for life
Atlantic puffins are known for their strong pair bonds. These seabirds usually form life-long partnerships with their chosen mates. This monogamous behavior is observed across the three main puffin species: Atlantic, Horned, and Tufted puffins. Their “divorce” rates are notably low, reflecting a consistent commitment to their mates.
Courtship begins with a unique series of behaviors. Puffins engage in rituals like bill rubbing, also known as “billing,” which helps strengthen their bond. Both mates participate in preparing and maintaining their nesting burrows, a task that further solidifies their partnership.
These pair bonds are crucial during the breeding season. Puffin pairs return to the same nesting sites each year. The faithful return to familiar territory with the same mate each season demonstrates their tendency to mate for life, a trait that distinguishes them among seabirds.
10) Puffins can live up to 20 years in the wild
Puffins are remarkable seabirds with a notable lifespan. In their natural habitat, puffins can live up to 20 years. This longevity allows them to experience multiple breeding seasons and contribute significantly to their populations.
Throughout their lives, puffins spend most of their time at sea. They return to land primarily for breeding purposes. During breeding, they use their developed skills to find food and care for their young.
The lifespan of puffins in the wild is influenced by various factors. Predation, availability of food, and environmental conditions play crucial roles in their survival. Despite these challenges, many puffins manage to reach and even surpass the 20-year mark.
In understanding puffin lifespans, it is noted that some individuals can live even longer. Recordings show that some puffins have lived nearly 30 years or more. This extended lifespan is a testament to their resilience and adaptability.
11) Chicks are called ‘pufflings’
Puffin chicks have a unique and charming name: pufflings. These young birds are born in nesting burrows usually located on coastal cliffs.
The parents share the responsibility of feeding the pufflings, often traveling long distances to gather fish from the ocean.
Pufflings are covered in fluffy down feathers, making them appear soft and almost toy-like. They develop rapidly under the care of their attentive parents.
Unlike some bird species, pufflings remain in the burrow until they are ready to fledge. The nurturing environment helps protect them from predators and harsh weather conditions.
Typically, pufflings leave the nest after about six weeks. They embark on their first flights and begin their journey towards adulthood, guided by instinct and the example set by their parents.
12) Puffins return to the same nesting spot each year
Atlantic puffins exhibit strong site fidelity, meaning they return to the same nesting spot each year. This behavior is consistent, with puffins often reclaiming the exact burrow they used in previous seasons.
The nesting sites are usually on cliffs or rocky islands, where they dig burrows or nest in crevices. These safe locations protect their eggs and chicks from predators.
Puffins typically reunite with the same mate at these nesting sites. Their strong bonds and repetitive behavior contribute to the stability of their populations in these chosen habitats.
This predictable pattern of returning to the same spot helps researchers study their breeding and social behaviors. It also emphasizes the importance of preserving these critical nesting areas for the survival of the species.
13) They Can Hold Their Breath for About 20-30 Seconds
Atlantic puffins are remarkable divers, utilizing their wings to propel themselves underwater. They can hold their breath for approximately 20 to 30 seconds.
During these dives, puffins are capable of reaching depths close to 200 feet. This ability allows them to hunt efficiently for fish, which are a crucial part of their diet.
Relying on their specialized adaptations, puffins use their spiny tongues to securely grasp multiple fish at once. This impressive breath-holding capacity plays a vital role in their survival and feeding strategies.
14) Atlantic puffins have a wingspan of 19-25 inches
Atlantic puffins possess a wingspan ranging from 19 to 25 inches. This moderate span allows them to be agile both in the air and underwater.
Their wings are adapted not only for flight but also for swimming. They use their wings to “fly” underwater, striking a balance between aerial and aquatic movement.
The compact structure of their wings aids them in their unique lifestyle. Whether diving for fish or navigating strong winds, their wings are crucial for survival and effective foraging.
15) They feed primarily on fish and zooplankton
Atlantic puffins are carnivorous seabirds. Their diet predominantly consists of fish and zooplankton.
Small fish like herring, capelin, and sand eels make up the bulk of their diet. Puffins are expert divers and can catch multiple fish in one dive.
Zooplankton also plays a crucial role in their diet. Crustaceans such as euphausiid shrimp, mysids, and copepods are commonly consumed.
These birds rely on the abundance of these marine creatures to feed their nestlings. Fish is often preferred for its high nutritional value.
During feeding, puffins use their specialized beaks to catch and hold several fish at a time. This ability ensures they efficiently provide for their young.
Their feeding habits highlight the importance of a healthy marine ecosystem. The availability of fish and zooplankton directly affects puffin populations.
16) Puffins are found in the Northern Hemisphere
Atlantic puffins primarily inhabit the Northern Hemisphere. These seabirds are commonly seen across the North Atlantic Ocean. Their range spans from eastern North America to northern Europe.
Puffins nest in colonies on coastal islands and cliffs. Countries like Iceland, Norway, and the United Kingdom have significant puffin populations. Their breeding sites are often selected for safety from predators.
During the non-breeding season, puffins spend most of their time at sea. They are adept swimmers and can be found far from land, often in the open Atlantic. This makes their offseason habitat quite extensive and difficult to study.
The Northern Hemisphere provides an ideal environment for puffins. The cold waters are rich in fish, which is their primary food source. This abundance supports their seasonal migration and breeding habits.
17) They use their wings to ‘fly’ underwater
Atlantic puffins are extraordinary swimmers. Similar to penguins, they use their wings to navigate underwater.
Their wings act as powerful flippers, allowing them to ‘fly’ through the water with remarkable agility.
When diving, Atlantic puffins use rapid wing movements, flapping up to 400 times per minute.
This technique enables them to reach speeds that help in catching prey.
Their webbed feet aid in steering, much like rudders on a boat. This combined propulsion system makes them highly effective underwater hunters.
This ability allows them to catch fish such as sand eels and herring.
They generally stay underwater for up to 30 seconds per dive, showcasing their efficiency and speed.
18) Puffins communicate with a series of grunts and squawks
Puffins are known for their vocal communication, especially during the breeding season. They use a series of grunts and squawks to interact with each other.
These sounds can be heard in their large breeding colonies, where they are often mingled with other birds. The vocalizations help to establish territories and strengthen social bonds among the group.
Ritualized greeting ceremonies involve specific calls. These vocal exchanges are crucial for maintaining pair bonds and ensuring successful breeding. Puffins also use visual signals in conjunction with their vocalizations to communicate effectively.
Their vocal repertoire may vary slightly between different colonies or regions. This variation helps in distinguishing individuals and adapting to the specific social dynamics within their colony.
19) Adults Undergo a Molt After the Breeding Season
After the breeding season, adult Atlantic puffins experience a significant transformation called molting.
Molting involves shedding their colorful bill plates and facial ornaments acquired during the breeding season. This process helps them maintain and refresh their feathers for optimum flight and insulation.
During this period, puffins also lose and regenerate their primary feathers. This feather loss affects their ability to fly, making them more vulnerable to predators. Therefore, they often retreat to safer, open ocean areas where they can molt without disturbance.
Molting is crucial for the puffins’ survival. By the end of the molting season, they have a brand-new set of feathers, ready for migration and the next breeding cycle.
20) They are often mistaken for penguins
Atlantic Puffins are frequently mistaken for penguins due to their similar black and white plumage.
Both birds sport a tuxedo-like appearance, but puffins are smaller and have colorful beaks.
While penguins waddle, puffins can fly, flapping their wings up to 400 times per minute.
21) Puffins have waterproof feathers
Puffins, like many seabirds, possess waterproof feathers. These feathers play a crucial role in their survival by providing excellent insulation against the cold waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
The feathers are coated with a special oil, which puffins produce using a gland located near the base of their tail. This oil ensures that water beads off, keeping the feathers dry.
When diving for fish, this waterproofing allows puffins to stay submerged without becoming waterlogged. This enhances their agility and efficiency in catching prey underwater.
Additionally, the waterproofing helps maintain buoyancy, allowing puffins to float on the ocean’s surface effortlessly. This is especially important during long periods at sea, where they rest between feeding sessions.
Waterproof feathers also aid in thermoregulation. By keeping their bodies dry, puffins can better retain heat, which is vital for survival in cold environments.
The combination of insulated, waterproof feathers and their unique oil production is a remarkable adaptation that exemplifies how puffins thrive in harsh marine conditions. This feature is a key aspect of their anatomy, enabling them to navigate their aquatic habitat effectively.
Habitat and Distribution
Atlantic puffins are primarily found in the North Atlantic, inhabiting various islands and coastal regions. They typically breed in secluded colonies and prefer habitats that protect them from predators and harsh weather.
Geographic Range
The Atlantic puffin’s range spans the cold waters and coastal areas of the North Atlantic Ocean. They are frequently spotted in regions such as Norway, Iceland, Greenland, and the Northeastern United States. They also inhabit parts of the British Isles and eastern Canada, including Newfoundland and Labrador.
During winter, puffins migrate to open seas. They spend months at a time far from land, often in the colder waters of the Atlantic. This pelagic lifestyle makes them elusive during non-breeding seasons, as they are scattered across vast oceanic areas.
Nesting Sites
Atlantic puffins prefer islands free of mammalian predators for their nesting sites. They often choose grassy cliffs or rocky crevices, and are known to dig burrows up to 1 meter deep. These burrows offer protection from both weather and predators.
Nesting colonies can range from a few pairs to thousands of birds. Puffins return to the same breeding colony each year, where they form monogamous pairs. Their nests within these colonies are crucial for the survival of their chicks, providing a safe environment until the young are ready to fledge.
Unique Physical Characteristics
Atlantic puffins possess several notable and easily recognizable physical traits that make them stand out among seabirds. Their colorful beak, striking plumage, and compact size all contribute to their unique appearance.
Distinctive Beak Features
Atlantic puffins are renowned for their vibrant beaks. The beak is triangular in shape and features a bright combination of orange, yellow, and red stripes. The intensity of the colors peaks during the mating season, serving as an attraction mechanism. The beak also has intricate textures, contributing to its grip, which helps puffins catch and hold multiple fish at once. After the breeding season, the beak’s colors fade, and the outer layer is often shed.
Coloration and Plumage
Puffins have a contrasting black and white plumage. Their backs and wings are black, providing camouflage against the dark sea when viewed from above, while their bellies are white, helping them blend in with the sky when viewed from below by underwater predators. They also sport bright orange feet, which add to their distinctive look, especially noticeable when they land or take off. The feathers are waterproof, aiding their aquatic lifestyle by keeping them dry and insulated while diving for fish.
Behavioral Traits
Atlantic puffins exhibit distinctive feeding habits and fascinating breeding behaviors, making them a captivating subject for bird enthusiasts.
Feeding Habits
Puffins are pelagic seabirds primarily feeding on small fish such as sandeels, hake, herring, capelin, and sand lance. Their diet varies between colonies depending on the availability of fish around their breeding areas. These birds are adept divers, capable of reaching depths of 200 feet (60 meters) in search of prey.
A typical dive lasts 20-30 seconds, although they can remain underwater for up to a minute. Puffins use their small wings as powerful flippers to swim through the water efficiently. They are capable of catching several fish in one dive, holding them in their beaks with a unique hinging mechanism that allows them to keep their mouths open while retaining their catch.
Breeding and Chick Rearing
Puffins breed in burrows on islands in the North Atlantic. They return to the same breeding colonies each year, often to the same burrow. A mated pair usually lays a single egg. The egg measures about 61 millimeters in length and weighs around 62 grams. Both parents share incubation duties, taking turns to keep the egg warm for approximately 35-49 days.
Once the chick hatches, both parents feed it small fish. Puffin chicks grow rapidly, gaining weight quickly. They leave the burrow and fledge after about 35-50 days, by which time they have developed enough to begin venturing into the sea. The chicks weigh approximately 42 grams at birth but grow steadily each day with the nourishment provided by both parents.