Two subspecies recognized:
A. a. alle
A. a. polaris

Also known as Little Auk
 

Identification

A small (starling-sized) black and white alcid, reminiscent of auklets from the North Pacific.
 

Where and When

Extremely numerous at the breeding colonies in arctic regions of the North Atlantic. Disperses to sea during winter in search of planktonic food. Periodically occurs in shore (wrecked), most often following severe storms or oiling.
 

Photographs on the web

Literature

Copyright © 2002 All rights reserved. Angus Wilson
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