How to Spot a Dovekie

By eHow Hobbies, Games & Toys Editor

Instructions

Step 1:
Look for the Dovekie during the breeding season along the rocky Arctic coasts of Greenland and Canada. In the winter months, the Dovekie moves southward toward the coast of New England in the United States and toward the coast of northern Europe.
Step 2:
Learn about the size of the Dovekie, the smallest Puffin in the Atlantic Ocean. The bird measures between 7 to 9 inches in length. The wingspan of the Dovekie ranges from 12 to 15 inches and weighs between 4.7 and 7.2 oz. on average. Males are slightly larger than females.
Step 3:
Observe the Dovekie's appearance. This stocky bird, with white underparts, has a black head and upperparts. Their black pointed wings have white edges and they have a pointed tail. This bird's bill is short and stubby. Females and males have a similar appearance.
Step 4:
Listen for any rare sounds made by the Dovekie. Even though Dovekies are usually very quiet, males do make high chattering and squeaking calls during breeding season.
Step 5:
Spot the Dovekie either swimming on the surface of the ocean or diving into the sea looking for food. They eat small fish and marine crustaceans. The Dovekie flies low over the surface of the ocean with rapid wing beats in a direct flying pattern.

Tips & Warnings

Dovekies form large colonies during breeding season.

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