Rhinoceros Auklet [Cerorhinca monocerata]
Description
The Rhinoceros Auklet is a medium-sized auk with a large, chunky body and a short, strong bill. Its most distinguishing feature is a small horn protruding from above its eye, giving the bird its name. They are mostly dark brown in color with pale underparts. This species inhabits the north Pacific Ocean, from Baja California, Mexico to Alaska and across to Japan. They nest in burrows and crevices on rocky islands. They primarily feed by diving for fish and invertebrates, and are known for their nocturnal habits.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Chordates
Chordata
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Birds
Aves
|
| Order |
Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers
Charadriiformes
|
| Family |
Auks, Murres, and Puffins
Alcidae
|
| Genus |
Rhinoceros Auklets
Cerorhinca
|