Alaska field notes, v1299
Page 377
Image from the Biodiversity Heritage Library. Contributed by Museum of Vertebrate Zoology, University of California, Berkeley. | www.biodiversitylibrary.org
Transcription
511 Gilmor HORNED PUFFIN Fratercula corniculata 1931 May 31 Kralaska Bay, Kralaska S., Alaska Saw three birds today, off seaward end of Unmaknak Is.; on first time. About 50 in all. from 9 - dozen in bunch. Bill + white underparts conspicuous. Rapid flight + torpedo shapes distinct. July 12, Sevoonga, St. Lawrence Is., Bering Sea, Alaska. On June 28 between Sevoonga & Camp Collier the following notes were taken. (Observation from whaleboat) "Apparently these birds copulate in the water for the antics of several pairs gave a strong suggestion. One of the pair was almost submerged while the other was directly on top and maintained his position + balance by beating his wings. They often remained in these positions for a minute or more. In general these birds are quite common here, their white under parts being the mark to distinguish them from their less numerous dark bodied cousins, the Tufted.