atlantic puffin
July 13, 2015
The Atlantic Puffin is the only puffin native to the Atlantic Ocean and 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. The Atlantic puffin has a large population and a wide range. It is not considered to be endangered although there may be local declines in numbers. On land, it has the typical upright stance of an Auk. . .
The Little Auk (Alle alle), is a tiny seabird, around the size of a starling
At sea, Atlantic Puffins swim on the surface and feed mainly on small fish, which they catch by diving underwater, using their wings for propulsion.
‘Atlantic Puffin’, watercolour miniature, 12.5cm x 17cm, (5″ x 6.5″), Arches Hot Press 140 lb. Paper
The Atlantic puffin spends the autumn and winter in the open ocean of the cold northern seas and returns to coastal areas at the start of the breeding season in late spring. It nests in clifftop colonies, digging a burrow in which a single white egg is laid. The chick mostly feeds on whole fish and grows rapidly. After about six weeks it is fully fledged and makes its way at night to the sea. It swims away from the shore and does not return to land for several years. (source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atlantic_puffin)
(reference photo for painting from: Rolf Stange…www.spitzbergen-svalbard.com)
weisserwatercolours 
If the Atlantic puffin has the typical upright stance of an auk, does that mean it’s auk-ward on land?
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That is so revealing, Victor. Indeed, when I read more and discovered they spend entire Seasons entirely in the water, it goes to show how intrepid a creature they are. As you point out, their coming to shore is only because of the need to nest–and then it is only for one single egg! How intriguing an animal. Thank you for making this personal, Doctor.
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The Atlantic puffin is very difficult to see as it nests on islands off the coast of Maine and access is limited. I got my photos on the third try. Three trips to the island and finally I got to get off the boat. Once and only once.
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…and I Cynthia get treated to more than that when I visit yours! thank you so much for coming by.
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As so often when I visit your site, I learn something new and view art to delight!
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hahaha! You are SO right, Barry 🙂 They look for all the world like ‘comedie del arte’ figures–how delightful. thanks again!
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What a cute name and bird.
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