Parakeet Auklet
Aethia psittacula

1/3200s at f5.6, ISO:2000, Canon EOS-1D X w/800mm


The parakeet auklet is a small seabird of the North Pacific. It is associated with the boreal waters of Alaska, Kamchatka and Siberia. It breeds on cliffs, slopes and boulder fields of offshore islands, generally moving south during the winter. The parakeet auklet\'s food varies with season, during the breeding season it takes mostly small planktonic crustaceans such as euphausiids, copepods and amphipods. Recent research shows it also preys on jellyfish in some areas. It often feeds at a considerable distance from the colony, diving up to 30 m to reach its prey. Breeding begins in April and May in colonies that are often shared with other auk species. The pair lay one egg, which is incubated for just over a month, the chick is then fed 4 times a day for around 35 days. The chick fledges at night, flying out to sea alone.
Saint Paul Island, AK
 
06/29/2014