Bobhafiz.com – The Atlantic Puffin (Fratercula arctica), often called the “clown of the sea” or “sea parrot,” is a remarkable bird that both flies and dives with impressive skill. This charismatic seabird spends most of its life at sea, using its wings to “fly” through the air and underwater like a penguin, diving to depths of up to 60 meters (200 feet) to catch fish. With its colorful beak and tuxedo-like plumage, the puffin has become a beloved symbol of coastal wildlife.
How Does the Puffin Fly and Dive?
Puffins are masters of dual locomotion:
- In the Air: Short, rounded wings allow rapid flapping (up to 400 beats per minute) for agile flight, though takeoff requires a running start on water or cliffs.
- Underwater: The same wings propel them while diving “flying” through water at speeds up to 10 km/h. Webbed feet act as rudders for precise maneuvers.
They hold their breath for about a minute per dive, catching multiple small fish (like sand eels) in one go, thanks to a hinged beak that holds prey securely with a spiny tongue.
Iconic Appearance and Breeding Season
During breeding season (April-August), puffins sport vibrant, multicolored beaks (orange, yellow, blue) and eye ornaments for attraction. Outside breeding, the beak sheds its colorful sheath, becoming duller.
Adults are about 30 cm (12 inches) long, with black backs, white undersides, and bright orange feet.
Habitat and Colonies
Puffins nest in large colonies on coastal cliffs and islands in the North Atlantic (Iceland, Norway, UK, Canada, Maine). They burrow into soil or use rock crevices, returning to the same mate and burrow yearly.
Winters are spent far out at sea, rarely seen from land.
Fun Facts About the Atlantic Puffin
- Can carry 10-60 fish in one beak load to feed chicks.
- Lifespan: Up to 30+ years.
- Vulnerable to climate change, overfishing, and oil spills population declining in some areas.
- Nicknamed for their barrel-shaped bodies (“puffin” means “little brother” in old English, referencing monk-like appearance).
If you’re enchanted by seabirds that fly and dive or cute ocean animals, the Atlantic puffin is a true marvel of adaptation. Spot them on puffin-watching tours in Iceland or Scotland for an unforgettable experience!
