Atlantic Puffin

The scientific name Fratercula comes from the Medieval Latin fratercula, friar, a reference to the black and white plumage which resembles monastic robes. The specific name arctica refers to the northerly distribution of the bird, being derived from the Greek άρκτος (“arktos”), the bear, referring to the northerly constellation, the Great Bear.

When it takes off, the Atlantic puffin patters across the surface of the water while vigorously flapping its wings, before launching itself into the air. The size of the wing is a compromise between its uses above and below water and its surface area is small relative to the bird’s weight. To maintain flight, the wings need to beat very rapidly at a rate of several times each second.

The striking appearance, large colorful bill, waddling gait and behavior of this bird have given rise to nicknames such as “clown of the sea” and “sea parrot”.

Type

Fauna

Scientific Name

Fratercula arctica

Location

The Atlantic puffin breeds in Iceland, Norway, Greenland, Newfoundland and many North Atlantic islands, and as far south as Maine in the west and the British Isles in the east. With a large population and a wide range, the species is not considered to be endangered, although there may be local declines in numbers.

Source

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atlantic_puffin