The Puffin
Puffin
(Fratercula arctica) Length 30cm. Nests on rocky
islands and high rocky coasts in and on the coasts of
the Atlantic, in colonies often containing thousands
of pairs. Nest is in burrows in the earth or under boulder.
In winter goes far out to sea, further out than any
other auk except Little Auk. Note 'pot-bellied' laxly.
big head and extraordinarily deep sideways-compressed
bill, grooved and gaudily coloured. At the breeding
site birds are seen with their bill full of fish, which
gives them a 'bearded' appearance. Frequently robbed
of their fish by Arctic Skuas. The outer layers of the
bill are shed in late summer, producing a narrower bill
in winter dress. Immature has an even narrower bill.
Greyish-white cheek darkens in winter plumage. When
swimming, holds breast higher on the water than other
auks, which lends characteristic silhouette. Usually
seen in flocks. Flies low over the water in short lines.
In flight big pale head, small size and short tail are
striking. Underwings fairly dark, but slightly paler
than Little Auk's (see fig. above left). Call is heard
only at breeding site and consists of unmusical 'aaah'
notes at the same time creaking and bellowing. R
An
excellent pocket reference book for recognising birds
is the Hamlyn Guide to Birds of Britain and Europe,
which is a comprehensive reference guide to Britain
and mainland Europe's plethora of ornithological life.
