Arctic Skua vs Atlantic Puffin

The Arctic Skua and Atlantic Puffin are distinct in appearance and behavior. The Arctic Skua is a kleptoparasitic seabird with variable plumage morphs, while the Atlantic Puffin is known for its colorful bill and orange legs, breeding on offshore islands.

Look for the Arctic Skua's variable dark and light morphs and its behavior of chasing other birds. The Atlantic Puffin is easily identified by its colorful bill and orange legs, often seen on breeding islands.

Arctic Skua is generally larger and more robust compared to the smaller, more compact Atlantic Puffin.

Arctic Skua exhibits two contrasting morphs: dark and light, with intermediate forms, whereas the Atlantic Puffin is unmistakable with its gaudily colored bill plates and bright-orange legs.

Arctic Skua is known for kleptoparasitism, often chasing other birds to steal food. In contrast, the Atlantic Puffin is clumsy on land but an agile diver, primarily hunting small fish.

Arctic Skua is often found in the open sea, especially during non-breeding seasons, while the Atlantic Puffin breeds on offshore islands and remains offshore in the high seas outside the breeding season.