The Bizarre Tongue Feature That Makes Puffins Master Fishers
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By Jessica Tucker
Published on May 3, 2026.
Puffins, known as coastal birds that dive for prey, have a unique method of securing fish that allows them to hold a dozen fish in their beak without dropping one. This feat is made possible by a special mouth feature that saves both time and energy while hunting. The puffin uses spines on their tongues to move fish to their mouth, which are held in place by another set of spines. The method is efficient and ensures fish stay in place until puffins are ready to eat them. The unique strategy reduces energy adult puffins use to feed and increases the energy they use to consume. The number of fish a puffin can hold increases significantly when caring for its chicks.
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