Crested Auklets are small seabirds that live in the Bering Sea. They are in the same family as other cute birds like Atlantic Puffins, Razorbills, and the extinct Great Auk. During the breeding season, which begins in mid-May, Crested Auklets of both sexes are in their beautiful and striking breeding plumage. This includes an unusual crest of bristles at the forehead, white eyeline contrasting with black body plumage, and a bright orange bill. Perhaps the most unusual component of the Crested Auklet's finery includes a strong but not-unpleasant odor, which is said to smell like tangerines, or another citrus-like odor. The function of this odor is not known to science, but it may have something to do with attracting a mate. While we don't currently offer scratch-and-sniff gifts, our selection of Crested Auklet apparel and novelties are great for anyone who loves these unusual, striking and fresh-scented birds!

You are probably well-aware that many countries have an official national bird. For example, the national bird of the United States is the Bald Eagle, and the national bird of Bolivia is the Andean Condor. Several U.S. states also have official birds. But did you know that there are even some cities that have their own official bird? The official city bird of Abiko, Japan, is the Eurasian Coot. We used to see these little water birds all the time while we lived in the Netherlands, but in fact their range is across much of Eurasia - all the way to Japan! Besides being one of just a few global cities to have an official bird, Abiko goes a step further with their love of avian friends. It is home to the Abiko City Museum of Birds!

Birdorable Eurasian Coot with the flag of Abiko