Atlantic Puffins Adult Apron

Puffins at rest on the rocks. The Atlantic Puffin (Fratercula arctica) feeds primarily by diving in the water. They breed in large colonies on coastal cliffs or offshore islands in the North Atlantic. Puffins shed the colorful outer parts of their bills after the breeding season, leaving a smaller and duller beak. Their short wings are adapted for swimming with a flying technique under water. In the air, they beat their wings rapidly (up to 400 times per minute) in swift flight, often flying low over the ocean's surface.