Key information
The little auk is a small seabird, of similar size to a starling. It is black above and white below, and in flight it shows dark underwings. It has a black stubby bill, and a short neck and tail. It flies with very fast whirring wingbeats low over the sea. It is a winter visitor to the waters around the UK in small numbers each year. It breeds in the Arctic and winters in the North Atlantic. Some birds enter the North Sea in autumn and large numbers can be seen passing offshore during gales.
What they eat:
Plankton, other tiny marine creatures and fish.
Measurements:
- Length:
- 17-19cm
- Wingspan:
- 40-48cm
- Weight:
- 140-170g
Population:
- UK passage:
- Variable
Identifying features:
Little auk (winter plumage)
