Manx shearwater
Puffinus puffinus
The Manx shearwater (Puffinus puffinus) is a medium-sized shearwater in the seabird family Procellariidae.
About the Manx shearwater
The Manx shearwater (Puffinus puffinus) is a medium-sized shearwater in the seabird family Procellariidae. The scientific name of this species records a name shift: Manx shearwaters were called Manks puffins in the 17th century. Puffin is an Anglo-Norman word (Middle English pophyn) for the cured carcasses of nestling shearwaters. The Atlantic puffin acquired the name much later, possibly because of its similar nesting habits.
Fun Facts About Manx shearwater
- The scientific name of this species records a name shift: Manx shearwaters were called Manks puffins in the 17th century.
- The Atlantic puffin acquired the name much later, possibly because of its similar nesting habits.
- Puffin is an Anglo-Norman word (Middle English pophyn) for the cured carcasses of nestling shearwaters.
Conservation Status
The Manx shearwater is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. This species is currently stable and not at significant risk of population decline.
Taxonomy & Classification
| Order | Procellariiformes |
| Family | Procellariidae |
| Genus | Puffinus |
| Species | Puffinus puffinus |
Range & Habitat
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Other species in the Procellariidae family: