Do puffins use tools?

Abstract

A recent article by Fayet et al. (1) reports two observations of wild puffins ( Fratercula arctica ) from two geographical locations touching different body parts with a stick. The behaviors are interpreted as unprecedented evidence of tool use in a seabird. However, there is another existing report of tool use in a wild seabird in a self-directed context as also pointed out in a commentary (2). From close by, Meyerriecks (3) observed a cormorant brushing its wings repeatedly with a loose feather. Each motion was preceded by dipping the feather’s tip to its preen gland. Due to its anecdotal nature, this remains a short note in an ornithological bulletin … [↵][1]1To whom correspondence may be addressed. Email: alice.auersperg{at}vetmeduni.ac.at. [1]: #xref-corresp-1-1