Discover Arctic Birds: Comprehensive Identification Guide with Photos
Imagine a vast, snowy expanse where the temperatures plummet and the sun barely rises above the horizon. This seemingly inhospitable environment is the Arctic, home to a surprising variety of wildlife, including a diverse range of bird species. These Arctic birds are uniquely adapted to survive in extreme conditions with some even thriving amidst the ice and snow. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of Arctic birds, and explore the incredible species that call this frigid habitat their home.
“In order to see birds it is necessary to become a part of the silence.” ― Robert Lynd
From the majestic Gyrfalcon to the hardy Snow Bunting, Arctic birds display incredible resilience and remarkable adaptations. Without further ado, let’s dive into 14 birds that live in the arctic!
Arctic Tern (Sterna paradisaea)
The Arctic Tern (Sterna paradisaea) is an avian marvel known for its extraordinary migratory pattern that spans from the Arctic to the Antarctic and back each year. These small, slender winter birds, with an adult wingspan of about 75-85 centimeters, are readily identified by their distinctive black cap, bright red beak, and deeply forked tail. Their plumage is predominantly white and light gray, providing excellent camouflage against the ice and snow of their native habitats (Hatch, 2002). This intricate migration makes the Arctic Tern one of the longest-distance migrants in the animal kingdom (Egevang et al., 2010).
Interesting Fact: Arctic Terns have one of the longest migrations of any animal, flying over 25,000 miles each year. This incredible journey ensures they see two summers annually, taking advantage of the abundant food resources available in both polar regions.
Despite their small size, Arctic Terns possess incredible endurance and adaptability that enable them to thrive in the harshest of environments. They breed in the Arctic regions during the summer, taking advantage of the continuous daylight for feeding and raising their young. As winter approaches, they embark on their monumental journey to the Antarctic, where they experience another summer. Arctic Terns enjoy more daylight than any other creature on Earth (Hatch, 2002).
Their diet consists mainly of fish and small invertebrates, which they skillfully catch by plunge diving from flight. During the breeding season, they are fiercely territorial and will aggressively defend their nesting sites against intruders, including much larger predators (Egevang et al., 2010). If you’re lucky enough to spot an Arctic Tern during its transient stopovers or in its breeding grounds, you’re witnessing an extraordinary testament to the resilience and endurance of nature’s avian navigators.
Ross’s Gull (Rhodostethia rosea)
Ross’s Gull, known scientifically as Rhodostethia rosea, is one of the most enchanting seabirds found in the Arctic. This small, delicate bird is characterized by its distinctive pinkish hue on the chest and a striking wedge-shaped tail, traits that make it easily recognizable even to novice birdwatchers.
Typically found breeding in the high Arctic regions, Ross’s Gulls prefer the remote tundra for nesting. During the non-breeding season, these gulls migrate to the northernmost coasts of Canada, Greenland, and sometimes even reach as far as the British Isles. Their presence is a rare treat for bird enthusiasts and photographers alike, often leading to much excitement within the birdwatching community (Goss-Custard et al., 2006).
Interesting Fact: The Ross’s Gull are named after the British explorer James Clark Ross, who first discovered them on an expedition to the Arctic in the 19th century.
Apart from their captivating appearance, Ross’s Gulls are also notable for their unique feeding habits. They primarily feed on small fish and invertebrates, which they pick off the surface of the water or catch mid-flight. This feeding behavior, combined with their graceful flight patterns, makes observing these birds an engaging experience.
Regarding their conservation status, Ross’s Gulls are considered to be of least concern by the IUCN. However, their reliance on pristine Arctic environments makes them vulnerable to habitat changes brought on by climate change. Therefore, it’s imperative for the birdwatching community and conservationists to monitor and protect these remarkable birds to ensure their continued presence in the Arctic skies.
Atlantic Puffin (Fratercula arctica)
The Atlantic Puffin (Fratercula arctica) is a seabird instantly recognizable by its colorful beak and striking black and white plumage. These charismatic birds are often referred to as the “clowns of the sea” due to their distinctive appearance and playful behavior. Found primarily in the North Atlantic, they are migratory birds, breeding in large colonies on coastal cliffs and islands during the summer months. As winter approaches, Atlantic Puffins head out to sea where they spend the majority of their lives.
Atlantic Puffins are skilled divers, using their wings to “fly” underwater while chasing after small fish, such as herring and sand eels, which make up the bulk of their diet. Their beaks are specially adapted for carrying multiple fish at a time, with backward-facing spines that prevent prey from slipping out. This unique feeding strategy allows them to efficiently bring food back to their chicks during the breeding season.
Interesting Fact: An Atlantic Puffin can hold up to a dozen small fish in its beak at once!
Nesting in burrows or natural crevices, Atlantic Puffins lay a single egg each year. Both parents take turns incubating the egg and feeding the chick once it hatches. The puffling, as the chick is known, grows rapidly and is ready to fledge about six weeks after hatching. At this stage, it makes its way to the sea alone, guided by instinct and the moonlight reflecting on the water.
The conservation status of the Atlantic Puffin is currently listed as “Vulnerable” due to threats such as overfishing, climate change, and pollution, which impact their food supply and breeding success (Watkinson & Sutherland, 2021). Conservation efforts, including the establishment of protected areas and sustainable fisheries management, are crucial to ensuring the survival of this beloved species.
Northern Fulmar (Fulmarus glacialis)
The Northern Fulmar (Fulmarus glacialis) is a resilient and fascinating seabird commonly found in the Arctic. With stiff wings and a robust build, this bird is often compared to a gull but differs drastically in both behavior and physiology. You’ll often see them gliding effortlessly over the ocean’s waves or nesting on steep cliffs, where they lay a single egg and both parents share the responsibility of incubation and feeding.
The Northern Fulmar has a sturdy and compact body. Their plumage comes in two color morphs: a light and a dark form.The light morph displays white to pale gray feathers, contrasted by darker wings and tail. In the dark morph, the feathers are predominantly grayish-brown. What’s striking is their distinctive tube-like nasal passages, known as “tubenoses,” which are key in their salt-excreting mechanism. Their eyes are dark, enhancing their expressive look, while their legs and feet are pale to blue-gray, adding a subtle color contrast.
Interesting Fact: Fulmars can live up to 40 years, making them one of the longest-living seabirds. Their extended lifespans are attributed to their hardy nature and adaptive feeding habits (Mallory, 2016).
One of the most striking features of the Northern Fulmar is its ability to produce a natural oil from its stomach, which it uses defensively against predators. This oil can be ejected with remarkable accuracy, making the fulmar a formidable opponent despite its relatively small size. Their diet mainly consists of marine organisms, including fish, squid, and zooplankton. This varied diet allows them to thrive in the challenging conditions of the Arctic.
Black Guillemot (Cepphus grylle)
The Black Guillemot (Cepphus grylle) is a strikingly beautiful bird that can be spotted primarily in the Arctic regions. Known for its distinctive black plumage contrasting with striking white wing patches, this bird offers an exciting sight for birdwatchers and wildlife photographers alike. Unlike many Arctic birds, the Black Guillemot can be found year-round in these frigid environments, adapting well to both sea and ice habitats.
Typically measuring about 30–38 centimeters in length, the Black Guillemot boasts a wingspan of approximately 52–58 centimeters. They possess a stout, black beak and striking red feet, which can be quite a spectacle during the mating season. In winter, their plumage turns a lighter shade, becoming mottled white and gray, which aids in camouflage against snowy backdrops (Gaston & Jones, 1998).
Interesting Fact: The Black Guillemot’s legs and feet turn bright red during the breeding season, making them quite a sight against the stark Arctic landscape.
During the breeding season, Black Guillemots engage in courtship displays that include elaborate vocalizations and synchronized swimming rituals. Their nests are usually built in rocky crevices close to shorelines, where they lay one to two eggs, which both parents help incubate. This species primarily feeds on small fish and invertebrates, diving underwater with impressive agility thanks to their powerful wings and webbed feet (Gaston & Jones, 1998).
Despite their adaptability, Black Guillemots face various challenges from climate change, which affects ice patterns and fish availability, their primary food source. Conservation efforts are essential to ensure these unique birds continue to thrive in their natural Arctic habitats.
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis)
The King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) is a large sea duck that is most notably recognized for its striking and colorful plumage. Males are particularly eye-catching with their bold, black, white, and vibrant orange hues that contrast starkly against the icy Arctic landscape. This species is found in the high Arctic regions during the breeding season and migrates to sub-Arctic and temperate zones during winter months.
Males have a unique combination of black and white plumage with a distinctive orange knob on their bills, while females are more camouflaged with mottled brown feathers, helping them blend into their nesting environment; this relatively large species, with males reaching up to 2.2 pounds (1 kg) and females slightly lighter, primarily feeds on mollusks, crustaceans, and other small aquatic animals they dive for in the icy waters, breeding in coastal tundra regions near freshwater ponds and rivers, and forming large flocks along rocky shorelines and in shallow coastal areas during winter.
Interesting Fact: During the breeding season, the male’s striking plumage showcases vibrant colors, including a uniquely colored orange bill with a distinctive knob, making it one of the most colorful ducks in the Arctic.
These birds are truly adapted to the harsh Arctic environment. Their strong, pointed bills and unique foraging habits allow them to thrive where few other species can. Observing a King Eider in its natural habitat is a unique and rewarding experience, offering insights into the resilient and resourceful nature of Arctic birds.
Common Eider (Somateria mollissima)
The Common Eider (Somateria mollissima) is a mesmerizing sea duck that predominantly inhabits the Arctic and sub-Arctic coastal regions. Recognizable by its distinct black and white plumage, the male boasts a striking contrast with a greenish hue on the nape, while the female adorns mottled brown feathers, providing her with effective camouflage. This species is the largest among the eider ducks, ranging from 50 to 71 cm in length, and has a wingspan of approximately 80 to 110 cm.
Throughout the breeding season, Common Eiders are found nesting in colonies on coastal islands. They prefer rocky or grassy areas where they can create shallow nests lined with down feathers plucked from the female’s breast. Their diet mainly consists of mollusks, crustaceans, and small fish, which they dive to forage (Goudie, Robertson, & Reed, 2020).
Interesting Fact: Common Eiders are known for their impressive diving capabilities. They can stay submerged for up to a minute and reach depths of 20 meters (65 feet) in search of food.
Migration patterns vary significantly between populations. Some eiders remain in the same region year-round, while others embark on long-distance migrations to warmer coastal areas during the winter. Their migratory routes and behaviors are influenced by climatic conditions and food availability. Notably, the survival of their chicks is heavily dependent on the abundance of food resources during the critical fledging period (Kear, 2020).
Observing the Common Eider provides birdwatchers with an opportunity to witness one of nature’s remarkable adaptions to the harsh Arctic environment. Whether it’s their spectacular plumage, intriguing nesting habits, or long migratory journeys, the Common Eider embodies the resilience and beauty of Arctic wildlife.
Long-tailed Duck (Clangula hyemalis)
The Long-tailed Duck (Clangula hyemalis) is a captivating species that thrives in the Arctic waters. Known for its distinctive and elegant tail feathers, this bird is easily identifiable. During the breeding season, the male sports striking black and white plumage, complemented by a long, pointed tail. In contrast, the female showcases more muted tones of brown and white but retains the species’ characteristic agility and grace.
In winter, the Long-tailed Duck undergoes a remarkable transformation. The male’s plumage shifts to a more muted winter coat, while the female’s colors become even softer, blending seamlessly with the snowy landscapes of its habitat. This seasonality in appearance is not just aesthetic; it plays a crucial role in the bird’s survival and camouflage.
These ducks are adept divers, capable of plunging to considerable depths in search of food. Their diet chiefly consists of aquatic invertebrates, small fish, and plant materials, which they forage during their wintering phase. They are often spotted in large flocks, especially in coastal areas and open waters during migration.
Interesting Fact: The Long-tailed Duck is an extraordinary diver, known to reach depths greater than 60 meters, showcasing its remarkable adaptation to the Arctic’s frigid waters.
The breeding grounds of the Long-tailed Duck are primarily located in the high Arctic tundra and coastal regions. Pairs nest in secluded areas, often near freshwater sources, where they can raise their young in relative safety. Despite their remote nesting sites, these birds face threats from climate change, predation, and habitat disturbance.
Observing Long-tailed Ducks offers birdwatchers and wildlife photographers an opportunity to witness a species finely tuned to the Arctic environment. Whether gliding gracefully over icy waters or diving into the depths, these birds exemplify the resilience and beauty of Arctic wildlife.
Snowy Owl (Bubo scandiacus)
The Snowy Owl (Bubo scandiacus) is an iconic bird of the Arctic, known for its striking white plumage and piercing yellow eyes. They are well-adapted to their cold environments, with thick feathering that extends down to their talons, providing insulation against the harsh Arctic winds. Snowy Owls are large birds, with males typically being whiter than females, who often have more gray and brown markings to blend into their surroundings.
These owls primarily feed on lemmings and other small mammals, but they are opportunistic hunters and will also eat birds, such as ptarmigans and ducks. This is especially true during the breeding season. During the winter months when food is scarcer, Snowy Owls may migrate southward, sometimes reaching as far as the northern United States.
Interesting Fact: Snowy Owls have a unique ability to regulate their body temperature, allowing them to thrive in the harsh Arctic environment. They have special feather adaptations that provide additional insulation against the freezing temperatures.
Snowy Owls typically nest on the ground, choosing elevated spots that offer a good vantage point to watch for predators and hunt for prey. Clutch sizes can be large, often reflecting the abundance of prey; in years when lemming populations are high, a single nest can contain up to 11 eggs.
Understanding the behavior and ecology of the Snowy Owl aids in conservation efforts, especially given the challenges posed by climate change and habitat disturbance. The Snowy Owl’s resilience and adaptability make it a fascinating subject for birdwatchers and wildlife photographers alike, offering endless opportunities for observation and study.
Gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus)
The Gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus) stands as a majestic figure among Arctic birds, captivating birdwatchers and photographers with its imposing presence and remarkable hunting prowess. As the largest of the falcon species, the Gyrfalcon is well-adapted to the harsh Arctic environment, displaying a diversity in plumage that ranges from nearly pure white to dark gray and brown. This magnificent bird predominantly preys on medium-sized birds and mammals, showcasing incredible speed and agility in flight, which makes observing one in action a truly breathtaking experience (US Fish and Wildlife Service, 2020).
Interesting Fact: Gyrfalcons do not migrate south for the winter. Instead, these tenacious hunters remain in the Arctic year-round, demonstrating remarkable resilience and adaptability in one of the planet’s most unforgiving environments.
Both male and female Gyrfalcons are known for their fierce territorial behavior, especially during the breeding season. They often nest on cliff ledges, where they can keep a vigilant watch over their expansive hunting grounds. Understanding the Gyrfalcon’s role in the Arctic ecosystem not only enhances your birdwatching experience but also underscores the importance of conservation efforts to protect these incredible raptors from environmental threats (Smith, 2019).
Red Phalarope (Phalaropus fulicarius)
The Red Phalarope (Phalaropus fulicarius) is a captivating bird species commonly found in the Arctic. Characterized by their strikingly vibrant plumage, these shorebirds are known for their distinctive foraging behavior and fascinating migratory patterns. During the breeding season, the females boast a brilliant red and brown coloration, which significantly fades when they migrate to the ocean for the winter.
Notably, the Red Phalarope exhibits an interesting role reversal in their mating habits. Unlike many bird species, it is the female who courts the male, while the male takes on the responsibility of incubating the eggs and caring for the young. This unique behavior makes them a particularly interesting subject for birdwatchers and wildlife photographers.
Interesting Fact: Red Phalaropes are known for their striking seasonal plumage transformation, where they shift from a drab, gray non-breeding plumage to a vibrant breeding plumage with a reddish-brown body, making them easily distinguishable during mating season.
In terms of diet, the Red Phalarope primarily feeds on aquatic invertebrates. Their preferred habitat includes shallow ponds and marshy areas during the breeding season, but they can be found on open ocean waters during the rest of the year. Observing their swift, darting movements as they forage on the water’s surface is a delightful experience for any bird enthusiast.
To fully appreciate the Red Phalarope, one must consider its remarkable adaptability to both terrestrial and marine environments. Their ability to thrive in such diverse conditions is a testament to the incredible versatility of Arctic bird species. Incorporating the study of Red Phalaropes into your birdwatching activities can provide fascinating insights into the dynamic ecosystems of the Arctic.
Purple Sandpiper (Calidris maritima)
The Purple Sandpiper (Calidris maritima) is a unique and resilient bird species commonly found in the Arctic’s rocky shorelines during the winter months. Known for its distinctive purplish hue on the upper parts of its body, this bird stands out among the icy landscapes. Unlike many of its shorebird counterparts, the Purple Sandpiper prefers rocky coasts over sandy beaches, making it a fascinating subject for birdwatchers and photographers alike.
Adapted to the harsh Arctic environment, the Purple Sandpiper has several unique characteristics that allow it to thrive. Here are some key features to look out for:
With their dark, purplish-gray feathers on the back and wings, these birds sport a striking contrast with their white belly and undertail coverts. Their medium-length, slightly curved bills are perfect for foraging in rocky crevices, allowing them to efficiently hunt for food. Typically measuring around 20-22 cm in length with a wingspan of 40-44 cm, these avian creatures are neither too small nor too large, making them agile in their natural habitat.
Interesting Fact: Black Guillemots are known for their distinctive high-pitched whistles and trills, which they use to communicate with each other, especially during the breeding season.
Often, you’ll observe them either alone or in small groups, diligently feeding on invertebrates such as insects, mollusks, and crustaceans. While some populations opt to stay put, others embark on fascinating migratory journeys southward to the northern coasts of Europe and the eastern coast of North America during the winter months. Their migratory patterns exhibit a remarkable adaptability that ensures their survival across different environments. (Johnston, 2020; Olsen, 2014).
Spotting a Purple Sandpiper rewards bird enthusiasts with a glimpse into the hardy lifestyles of Arctic bird species. It’s a testament to nature’s adaptability and the beauty that thrives even in the coldest environments.
Lapland Longspur (Calcarius lapponicus)
The Lapland Longspur (Calcarius lapponicus) is a fascinating arctic bird species that captures the attention of bird enthusiasts from all walks of life. Known for their striking seasonal plumage changes, these birds are often spotted in winter flocks, scratching at the ground in search of seeds. In their summer breeding grounds, the males display beautiful black and chestnut patterns that are quite a sight against the tundra landscape (National Park Service, 2021).
Named after the Lapland region, Lapland Longspurs are one of the most widespread and abundant songbirds in the Arctic. Their adaptability to extreme climates is truly remarkable. They migrate southward in large numbers to more temperate fields and prairies during the harshest winter months, showcasing their resilience and survival skills (National Park Service, 2021).
Interesting Fact: Lapland Longspurs can be recognized by their melodious, tinkling song, which they often perform while fluttering in mid-air.
Lapland Longspurs are fascinating birds with unique adaptations for life in the Arctic. During the winter months, their diet primarily consists of seeds, but they shift to insects during the breeding season when extra protein is needed. These birds are well-versed in survival, often nesting on the ground, cleverly concealed among grass or shrubs to protect their young. As winter approaches and the Arctic chill sets in, Lapland Longspurs migrate south, often traveling in flocks that can number in the thousands, a breathtaking sight against the sky (National Park Service, 2021).
With their hardy nature and captivating behavior, Lapland Longspurs continue to enchant birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. Their presence is a testament to the incredible biodiversity that thrives in even the most challenging environments.
Snow Bunting (Plectrophenax nivalis)
The Snow Bunting (Plectrophenax nivalis), often referred to as the “snowflake” due to its habit of flitting about like snowflakes in winter, is a captivating Arctic bird. Known for their strikingly beautiful plumage, male Snow Buntings boast an impressive display of bright white feathers accented with black wingtips and a streak of gold on their beaks. Females, while more subdued in appearance, exhibit a blend of brown and white, providing effective camouflage against their snowy habitats.
Snow Buntings are uniquely adapted to the harsh Arctic conditions. Their thick plumage offers essential insulation against the cold, and their legs are feathered to keep warm while skittering across snowy terrain. During the breeding season, these birds nest in rocky crevices, laying eggs in carefully constructed nests lined with feathers and grass for insulation.
Interesting Fact: Snow Buntings undergo one of the most significant seasonal changes in plumage among Arctic birds. In winter, their feathers turn almost entirely white, helping them blend into the snowy landscape, while in summer, they exhibit darker plumage to match the tundra’s rocky terrain.
- Habitat: Snow Buntings favor barren, open landscapes such as tundra and farmland.
- Diet: Primarily seeds and insects; they forage on the ground or in low vegetation.
- Migration: They migrate to more temperate regions during winter, often forming sizable flocks.
With a life history so finely tuned to the Arctic’s extremes, Snow Buntings serve as a testament to nature’s resilience. These birds are not just a delight to birdwatchers and wildlife photographers but also a symbol of the sheer endurance required to thrive in one of Earth’s most challenging climates (BirdLife International, 2019).
Conclusion
In exploring the magnificent realm of Arctic birds, we’ve encountered a diverse array of species that thrive in one of the planet’s most extreme environments. From the migratory prowess of the Arctic Tern to the striking appearance of the Snowy Owl and the impressive hunting skills of the Gyrfalcon, each bird brings a unique story and adaptation to the chilly Arctic landscapes.
The whimsical Atlantic Puffin, with its colorful beak, and the elusive Ross’s Gull, with its graceful demeanor, have captivated birdwatchers and researchers alike. Meanwhile, the hardy seabirds such as the Northern Fulmar and the Black Guillemot navigate the frigid waters with remarkable ease, showcasing nature’s ingenuity in survival.
Our understanding deepens further with the stunning King Eider and Common Eider, whose presence marks the Arctic’s thriving marine ecosystems. The distinctive call of the Long-tailed Duck and the graceful movements of the Red Phalarope add a melodic charm to the Arctic soundscape.
The rugged terrain is home to the resilient Purple Sandpiper and the adaptable Lapland Longspur, while the vibrant Snow Bunting brings a splash of color against the stark, icy backdrop. Each species not only enriches our understanding of avian life but also underscores the importance of conserving these unique habitats.
As you continue your birdwatching adventures or deepen your research, we hope this guide on Arctic birds has been enlightening and inspiring. Stay curious and respectful towards these incredible avian inhabitants and contribute to the efforts of preserving their natural environments. Check out our other articles for other bird information!
References:
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