Alcids

Parakeet Auklet

Aethia psittacula

A striking auklet with a rounded orange-red bill that curves upward at the tip, giving it an almost comical expression. The white facial plume, white underparts, and dark upperparts make it one of the most readily identifiable auklets. Less colonial than Least or Crested Auklets, preferring scattered nest sites on cliff faces.

Where to look

Throughout the Aleutian chain; also breeds on the Pribilofs. Often encountered singly or in small groups at sea, particularly around kelp beds.

Habitat

Open North Pacific and Bering Sea; rocky coastal cliffs and boulder fields for nesting.

Diet

Euphausiids, jellyfish, squid, and small fish.

Natural history note

Unlike other auklets, the Parakeet Auklet is not a specialist zooplankton feeder — it takes a broader diet including jellyfish.