Cassin's auklet
Ptychoramphus aleuticus
Cassin's auklet (Ptychoramphus aleuticus) is a small, chunky seabird that ranges widely in the North Pacific.
About the Cassin's auklet
Cassin's auklet (Ptychoramphus aleuticus) is a small, chunky seabird that ranges widely in the North Pacific. It is the only species placed in the genus Ptychoramphus. It nests in small burrows and because of its presence on well studied islands in British Columbia and off California it is one of the better known auks. It is named for the American ornithologist John Cassin. Cassin's auklet is a small (25 cm, 200 g) nondescript auk. Its plumage is generally dark above and pale below, with a small white mark above the eye. Its bill is overall dark with a pale spot, and its feet are blue. Unlike many other auks, Cassin's auklet lacks dramatic breeding plumage, remaining the same over most of the year. At sea it is usually identified by its flight, which is described as looking like a flying t
Fun Facts About Cassin's auklet
- It nests on offshore islands, with the main population stronghold being Triangle Island off Vancouver Island's Cape Scott, where the population is estimated to be around 55,0000 pairs.
- Unlike many other auks, Cassin's auklet lacks dramatic breeding plumage, remaining the same over most of the year.
- Cassin's auklet is a small (25 cm, 200 g) nondescript auk.
- australis – van Rossem, 1939: southern Baja California.
- aleuticus – (Pallas, 1811): Aleutian Islands & south Alaska to northern Baja California.Kurile Islands.
Conservation Status
The Cassin's auklet is classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. This species faces threats that could impact its population if conservation measures are not maintained.
Taxonomy & Classification
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Alcidae |
| Genus | Ptychoramphus |
| Species | Ptychoramphus aleuticus |
Range & Habitat
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