Alcids

Horned Puffin

Fratercula corniculata

A stocky, tuxedo-colored alcid instantly recognized by its large orange-red bill and the fleshy black 'horn' above each eye in breeding plumage. One of the most sought-after seabirds of the North Pacific, nesting in crevices and caves on rocky sea cliffs throughout the Aleutians and Pribilofs.

Where to look

St. Paul Island (Pribilofs), Unalaska/Dutch Harbor cliffs, and rocky headlands throughout the Aleutian chain. Often seen flying low over open water between feeding and nesting sites.

Habitat

Open North Pacific and Bering Sea for foraging; rocky sea cliffs and talus slopes for nesting.

Diet

Small schooling fish (sandlance, capelin, smelt); also squid and crustaceans.

Natural history note

Horned Puffins can carry dozens of small fish crosswise in their bills at once, held in place by a unique backward-facing palate spine.