Six Ways of Seeing a Rhinoceros Auklet:We no longer know what to expect of our oceans

摘要

To see the bird you have to know what to look for, so first its name and basic measurements:Rhinoceros Auklet Cerorhinca monocerata Length: 15" Wingspan: 22" Weight: 1.1 lb (520g)Then a short description: "Uncommon or locally common on open ocean. Nests in colonies in burrows or deep crevices on islands. Nearly always solitary at sea. Feeds almost exclusively on small fish. Our largest auklet, but smaller than murres. Note relatively long, stout, yellowish bill; wedge-shaped head; and overall gray color with fairly extensive white belly...."Below the description are paintings of the auklet as a juvenile, a nonbreeding adult, and a breeding adult, when both sexes grow wispy, white plumes above their eyes and across their cheeks, and a stubby horn sprouts from their bill. These inspire the species' common and scientific names, but they are mere seasonal ornaments. Grayness is what defines the auklet no matter its sex or age.