Quick answer
Atlantic Puffins (Fratercula arctica) are birds found across North America, Europe. The colorful 'sea parrot' of the North Atlantic. Adults typically weigh 300–500 g (0.7–1.1 lb), reach speeds of Up to 88 km/h (55 mph) in flight, and live 20+ years. They feed on carnivore (small fish) and are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. The open North Atlantic, breeding on coastal cliffs and islands from Canada to Norway.
Key takeaway
Atlantic Puffins (Fratercula arctica) are birds found across North America, Europe. The colorful 'sea parrot' of the North Atlantic. Adults typically weigh 300–500 g (0.7–1.1 lb), reach speeds of Up to 88 km/h (55 mph) in flight, and live 20+ years. They feed on carnivore (small fish) and are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. The open North Atlantic, breeding on coastal cliffs and islands from Canada to Norway.
Atlantic Puffin overview
Atlantic Puffin (Fratercula arctica) is an bird listed here as Vulnerable. Typical weight 300–500 g (0.7–1.1 lb); lifespan around 20+ years.
Atlantic Puffin ecology
Diet: Carnivore (small fish). Habitat: Open ocean; coastal cliffs to breed. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Atlantic Puffins and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild atlantic puffins are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Vulnerable. See the full Atlantic Puffin profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Range and habitat
Atlantic Puffins inhabit The open North Atlantic, breeding on coastal cliffs and islands from Canada to Norway. Their preferred habitat includes open ocean; coastal cliffs to breed, where they find food, shelter, and breeding sites. Population density varies with prey availability, water access, and human disturbance. Protected areas and intact corridors remain essential for long-term persistence across North America
Physical characteristics and behaviour
Adult atlantic puffins typically measure about 0.28 m in length and weigh 300–500 g (0.7–1.1 lb). They can sprint at Up to 88 km/h (55 mph) in flight when hunting or escaping predators. Atlantic Puffins are known for the colorful 'sea parrot' of the north atlantic — social structure, daily activity, and seasonal movements all reflect pressures in their native environment.
Sources
Atlantic Puffin FAQs
What are key facts about atlantic puffins?
Atlantic Puffins (Fratercula arctica) are birds found across North America, Europe. The colorful 'sea parrot' of the North Atlantic. Adults typically weigh 300–500 g (0.7–1.1 lb), reach speeds of Up to 88 km/h (55 mph) in flight, and live 20+ years. They feed on carnivore (small fish) and are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. The open North Atlantic, breeding on coastal cliffs and islands from Canada to Norway.
What is the scientific name of the atlantic puffin?
Fratercula arctica — used in research and conservation listings for atlantic puffins.
What do atlantic puffins eat?
Atlantic Puffins eat small fish, with seasonal and regional variation in Open ocean; coastal cliffs to breed.
Where do atlantic puffins live?
They are associated with Open ocean; coastal cliffs to breed. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of atlantic puffins?
Listed in our guides as Vulnerable. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.