About the Whiskered Auklet
The whiskered auklet is a small seabird of the auk family. It has a more restricted range than other members of its genus, Aethia, living only around the Aleutian Islands and on some islands off Siberia, and breeding on these islands. It is one of the smallest alcids, only the closely related least auklet being smaller. Its name is derived from the long white feathers on its face that are part of its breeding plumage.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
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An odd characteristic of this bird, which is also shared with the crested auklet, is that its plumage smells of citrus. Fishing boats pose a huge threat to this bird, since it is attracted to lights at night.
Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
Where the Whiskered Auklet lives
Recorded as a rare visitor in United States.
When to see the Whiskered Auklet
Peak activity in June · a summer visitor species across most of its range
Easily confused with
Least AukletAethia pusillaThe least auklet is a seabird and the smallest species of auk.
Crested AukletAethia cristatellaThe crested auklet can measure 18–27 cm (7.1–10.6 in) in length, 34–50 cm (13–20 in) in wingspan and weigh 195–330 g (6.9–11.6 oz).
Parakeet AukletAethia psittaculaThe parakeet auklet is a small (23 cm) auk with a short orange bill that is upturned to give the bird its curious fixed expression.
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