Essential Little Auk (Dovekie) Information
Appearance and Size
The Little Auk is the smallest of the Atlantic auk species, measuring about half the size of an Atlantic puffin. These birds have a black head, neck, wings, and back, with white underparts, a short, stubby bill, and a small round black tail.
Habitat and Behavior
Little Auks breed in large colonies, typically on rocky cliffs and scree slopes, where they lay a single egg in cracks and crevices. These colonies can be difficult to access, but they are truly remarkable to witness due to the overwhelming number of birds, constant aerial movement, and noise.
Little Auks are strong flyers, using rapid, blurred wingbeats to fly from their nests to the sea. Like other auk species, they dive to hunt small crustaceans and juvenile fish, using their wings to "fly" underwater in search of food.
Population and Range
It is estimated that there may be as many as 40 million pairs of Little Auks worldwide, making them one of the most numerous seabirds. They are primarily found in the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions, with large colonies in Greenland and Svalbard.
Unique Cultural Connection
In Greenland, Little Auks are used to make a traditional Inuit food called kiviak. This dish involves stuffing a seal skin with hundreds of Little Auks, feathers and all, sealing it with seal fat, and letting it ferment for several months. Kiviak is then eaten on special occasions such as birthdays and weddings.
Interesting Facts
- Small but Mighty: Despite their small size, Little Auks are excellent divers and can swim underwater using their wings to catch prey.
- Huge Colonies: Their colonies can be so large and active that they create an overwhelming experience of sound and movement for visitors.
- Traditional Food: In Greenland, Little Auks are used to make kiviak, a fermented dish eaten during celebrations.
