The spelling of the word "tufted puffin" is based on the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). It is pronounced as /ˈtʌftɪd ˈpʌfɪn/. The "t" sound at the beginning is followed by an "uh" sound, then a "f" sound, and finally a "t" sound. The second word is pronounced with an "uh" sound, followed by a "p" sound, an "uh" sound once again, an "f" sound, an "ih" sound and a final "n" sound. The word "tufted" refers to the bird's distinctive tuft of feathers on its head.
A tufted puffin is a seabird belonging to the Alcidae family and is characterized by its distinct appearance and behaviors. This species, scientifically known as Fratercula cirrhata, derives its name from its tuft of long, yellow feathers that arch backward atop its head. The tufted puffin possesses a stout body, measuring around 35 cm in length, and a wingspan of approximately 51 cm. Its striking features comprise a black body, white facial plumes surrounding its eyes, a vibrant orange bill and feet, and vivid red-orange triangular markings on its mouth and base of the bill.
Found in the colder coastal waters of the North Pacific, from Alaska to Siberia and Japan, the tufted puffin primarily feeds on fish, such as herring and sand lance, as well as marine invertebrates. They have notably adapted to their maritime lifestyle, displaying excellent diving skills as they plunge beneath the surface to catch prey. These puffins have also developed specialized bills that allow them to hold and transport multiple fish at once, for both consumption and the feeding of their young.
Tufted puffins are highly social birds, gathering in large colonies on offshore islands or cliff ledges during the breeding season. They excavate burrows in the soil to lay their sole egg, which both parents diligently incubate. Once hatched, the chicks are cared for by both parents as they grow and develop. The tufted puffin is widely admired for its unique appearance, playful behavior, and endearing qualities, making it a beloved and cherished species among bird enthusiasts and wildlife observers worldwide.
The word "tufted" refers to the distinctive head plumage of the puffin, while "puffin" itself is derived from the Old Norse word "papafugl", meaning "priest bird". This name was supposedly given to puffins due to their black and white plumage, which resembled the traditional robes worn by Christian priests. The combination of "tufted" and "puffin" accurately describes the bird's unique appearance, particularly the tufts of feathers that protrude from its head.