Tufted Puffin
Fratercula cirrhata
The Tufted Puffin is a rare visitor to British shores, typically seen during periods of severe weather or as a vagrant, with most sightings occurring on the western coast of the UK. It is most likely to be spotted in the summer months when it is in its breeding plumage.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Tufted Puffin in the field.
The Tufted Puffin can be identified by its distinctive yellow tufts, thick red bill, and black back with white underparts, making it a striking sight. Its unique combination of colours and features sets it apart from other seabirds.
The Tufted Puffin is slightly larger than a Black Guillemot, with a sturdy build that is characteristic of the auk family.
The male Tufted Puffin has a distinctive black back and white underparts, with bright yellow tufts on its head and a thick red bill, which are most pronounced during the breeding season.
Similar to the male, the female Tufted Puffin also has the distinctive yellow tufts and red bill, although these may be slightly less vibrant than those of the male.
The Tufted Puffin's call is a low, grunting sound, often described as a deep "arr" or "urr" noise, which is typically heard during the breeding season.
Tufted Puffins are pelagic birds that feed on fish and other marine animals, often diving to great depths in search of food, and are known for their agile flight and colonial breeding habits.
The Tufted Puffin can be confused with the Atlantic Puffin, but can be distinguished by its yellow tufts and thicker red bill, which are not found on the Atlantic Puffin.
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