The Tufted Puffin is extremely charismatic and the most recognized seabird in Oregon. It is easily identified in the breeding season by the colorful laterally compressed bill, a distinct white face with long cream-colored facial plumes, black body, and reddish-orange feet. In winter it moves offshore and loses most of its colorful plumage and bill plates.‌

Tufted Puffins are burrow-nesters and feed at sea. Along the Oregon coast, they primarily nest on soil-covered islands free of mammalian predators. They also occasionally nest on headlands such as Cape Mears, Cape Lookout, Cape Foulweather, and Yaquina Head. ‌

Tufted Puffin populations have declined significantly in Oregon and the species has become a rare sight in areas that are visible to the public. Major nesting concentrations occur along the north coast, with most nesting birds at Three Arch Rocks. They are more commonly spotted at Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach and Coquille Point in Bandon.‌

The Tufted puffin is an Oregon Conservation Strategy Species in the Nearshore ecoregion.

Hear the call of the Tufted puffin

Photo by Kathy Munsel, ODFW