Whiskered auklet facts for kids
The whiskered auklet (Aethia pygmaea) is a small seabird that belongs to the auk family. It's found in a specific area, mainly around the Aleutian Islands and some islands near Siberia, like the Commander Islands. These birds also breed on these islands. It's one of the smallest birds in its family, with only the least auklet being tinier. Its name comes from the long, white feathers on its face, which are part of its special look during breeding season.
Whiskered auklets are not studied as much as other birds. Scientists first thought they were two different species. But later research showed they are just one species, with small changes across their wide home range. These birds do not seem to migrate far. Instead, they stay near their breeding islands all year round. They even sleep on land throughout the year, which is unusual for birds in their family.
Quick facts for kids Whiskered auklet |
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Aethia
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pygmaea
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Contents
What They Look Like
One interesting thing about the whiskered auklet, and also the Crested auklet, is that their feathers can smell like citrus fruit!
What They Eat
Whiskered auklets find their food close to shore, usually within 16 kilometers (about 10 miles) of land. They like areas where ocean currents bring their food together in big groups. In the summer, they mostly eat tiny sea creatures called copepods, especially a type called Neocalanus plumchrus. When fall and winter arrive, they switch to eating krill, which are small shrimp-like animals.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Whiskered auklets lay just one egg. They lay it in a crack or hole in the rocks. They often nest in loose colonies with other whiskered auklets. Sometimes, they nest near other types of seabirds too. Both the mother and father bird help to incubate the egg. They also both help to raise the chick once it hatches. Their long face whiskers are very useful! They help the birds feel their way in and out of their nests, especially when it's dark at night.
Threats to Whiskered Auklets
Fishing boats can be a big danger to these birds. Whiskered auklets are attracted to lights at night, which can lead them into trouble near fishing boats.
See also
In Spanish: Mérgulo bigotudo para niños
