Horned Puffin (Fratercula corniculata) is a bold and charismatic seabird that looks like it flew straight out of a storybook. With its black back, white belly, and oversized, candy-colored beak, this puffin is instantly recognizable—and full of personality. But what truly sets it apart is the small black “horn” above each eye, giving it an expressive, almost whimsical look.

Native to the rocky coastlines and cliffs of the North Pacific, especially around Alaska, Horned Puffins spend most of their lives at sea. They're built for it—compact, waterproof, and excellent swimmers. Using their wings like flippers, they dive underwater to catch small fish, surfacing with multiple prey clamped crosswise in their beak thanks to specialized barbs on their tongue.

During breeding season, Horned Puffins nest in cliffside crevices, returning to land in colorful glory after a winter spent far offshore. They’re attentive parents, often taking turns feeding their single chick. Outside of breeding season, they molt their bright beaks and return to sea in a more subdued look, but they’re no less skilled or adventurous.

From their comic-book charm to their rugged, sea-tough lifestyle, the Horned Puffin is a perfect mix of beauty, grit, and wild ocean spirit. Whether spotted bobbing on chilly waves or perched high on a cliff, it’s no wonder this puffin steals the show wherever it appears.