Little Auk
Alle alle
Length 20cm

The smallest auk in Europe. Does not breed in Britain and Ireland but seen as a winter visitor, in variable numbers, from its high Arctic breeding grounds. Winters mainly far out to sea and so usually observed during or after severe gales or prolonged cold weather. In outline, remarkable for seeming to have almost no neck and for its tiny, stubby bill. In flight, body can appear almost spherical with short wings and whirring wingbeats. Winter plumage birds have black cap, nape and back, and white underparts; white lines on wings and tiny white crescent above eye visible only at extremely close range. Makes long, frequent dives and so can be very difficult to find or relocate.