When people think of Iceland’s birdlife, the Atlantic Puffin is often the first species that comes to mind. With its striking black and white plumage, bright orange feet, and colourful beak, this charismatic seabird has earned the nickname “clown of the sea.” But there’s more to puffins than just their appearance! Here are 10 fascinating facts about the Atlantic Puffin that you may not know.
The Smallest Puffin Species
There are three species of puffins in the world: Atlantic Puffin, Tufted Puffin, and Horned Puffin. Of these, the Atlantic Puffin (Fratercula arctica) is the smallest. The name Fratercula arctica means “little brother of the north” in Latin, referencing both their small size and their resemblance to monks in black-and-white robes. An Atlantic Puffin weighs only about as much as a can of soda!
Expert Swimmers and Fast Flyers
Despite their short wings, puffins are excellent swimmers. They use their wings like flippers to propel themselves underwater, appearing as if they are “flying” beneath the surface while catching fish. On land, they are also strong fliers, reaching speeds of up to 88 km/h (55 mph) by flapping their wings up to 400 times per minute! However, their landings are not as graceful, often resulting in a clumsy tumble.
Often Mistaken for Penguins
Because of their similar colouring and beak shape, puffins are sometimes mistaken for miniature penguins. However, unlike penguins, puffins can fly and are only found in the Northern Hemisphere, whereas penguins live exclusively in the Southern Hemisphere and are flightless.
Their Beaks Glow Under UV Light
A puffin’s beak is not just colourful – it’s also fluorescent! Studies have shown that when exposed to UV light, their beaks glow, suggesting that they can see ultraviolet wavelengths. This unique feature may play a role in attracting mates during the breeding season.
Puffins Mate for Life
Puffins are known for their monogamous relationships, often pairing for life. Each year, they return to the same nesting site to reunite with their partner. If a puffin’s mate arrives late, they may temporarily find a new partner, but they will reunite if the original mate returns.
They Prefer Remote Islands and Cliffs
To avoid predators, puffins nest in colonies on remote islands and steep cliffs. Iceland is home to more than 60% of the world’s Atlantic Puffin population, making it one of the best places to see these seabirds during the summer breeding season.
Puffins Live in Burrows, Not Nests
Unlike most birds that build nests, puffins dig burrows in the ground or between rocks using their beaks and feet. These burrows provide protection for their single egg from predators. Puffins are devoted parents, taking turns incubating the egg and feeding their chick, known as a puffling.
They Can Carry Dozens of Fish at Once
Puffins are expert hunters, capable of carrying multiple fish in their beaks at once thanks to their spiny tongues and specialised beak grooves. While they typically hold around 10 fish at a time, the record is over 60 fish in a single trip! Their diet mainly consists of sandeel, capelin, and herring.
Long-Lived Seabirds
Atlantic Puffins have an impressive lifespan, often living 20 years or more in the wild. The oldest recorded puffin was over 35 years old! Their longevity helps sustain their populations, even with environmental challenges.
They Spend Most of Their Lives at Sea
After the breeding season, puffins migrate back to sea, where they spend most of the year. During winter, their beaks lose their bright colours, and their plumage darkens, making them almost unrecognizable. Scientists are still learning about their winter habits, as they remain elusive in the vast ocean.
See Puffins in Iceland! Puffins are one of Iceland’s most beloved wildlife attractions, and the best time to see them is between May and mid-August. If you're visiting Reykjavík, puffin watching boat tours provide a fantastic opportunity to observe them up close. Join a tour and witness these incredible seabirds in their natural habitat!