Puffin
( Fratercula arctica )
Puffins are small seabirds averaging around 1 ft (25 cm) in height found in the North Pacific Ocean and North Atlantic Ocean. The Puffins are mostly black and white with the exception of their large beaks. The Puffin’s beaks gain a bright arrangement of technicolor during the breeding season and then the colors disappear to a dull gray after the breeding season.
To take flight the Puffin must exert large amounts of energy by flapping its wings at 400 times a minute and can achieve a flight speed of 55 mph (88 kmph). Puffins also have trouble sticking the landing, often awkwardly crashing into the water or rolling onto the grass. Where the Puffins excels is diving. The Puffin can reach a depth of up to 200 ft (60 m) underwater while hunting for their favorite fish. Once a fish is caught a Puffin’s specialized tongue and beak allows it to hold up to 62 fish at once while underwater.
The IUCN has designated the Puffin as a Vulnerable species due to their global population decline. Overfishing, pollution, and climate change have all negatively impacted the Puffin over recent years. To learn more about the Puffin and conservation efforts click the link below: