Crested Auklet
Image: Геннадий Цыганков (cc-by-nc)
NameCrested Auklet
Common NameCrested Auklet
Scientific NameAethia cristatella
FamilyAlcidae
Wingspan (cm)67.5
Length (cm)26
Weight (g)290
Plumage DetailsAdults have sooty gray to black plumage over their entire body. A striking feature is the black, forward-curving crest of feathers on the forehead, and a thin white plume extending backward from behind the eye. The bill is bright orange with a yellow tip, and their eyes are red.
Vocalization / CallCrested Auklets are known for their varied vocalizations, especially in breeding colonies. Their calls include growls, chattering, and distinctive barking sounds.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsmarine, coastal, rocky islands
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds on islands throughout the Bering Sea, Sea of Okhotsk, and Aleutian Islands. During winter, they disperse across the North Pacific, reaching as far south as Japan and the western coast of North America.
Identifying FeaturesProminent forward-curving black crest on forehead, Bright orange bill with yellow tip, Small white plume extending from behind the eye, Dark sooty-gray body plumage, Red eyes
Description
The Crested Auklet is a distinctive medium-sized seabird characterized by its prominent forward-curving crest and bright orange bill. These highly social birds form large breeding colonies on rocky islands, foraging for marine invertebrates in cold northern waters.
