A tufted puffin (Fratercula cirrhata) floats on the calm waters off South Marble Island in Glacier Bay National Park, its bright orange bill and striking pale facial plumes mirrored below in wavy, rippling reflections. These charismatic seabirds are powerful fliers and exceptional divers, using their wings to “fly” underwater as they chase small fish, squid, and other prey in the nutrient-rich coastal waters. Tufted puffins spend most of their lives far from shore, returning only during the breeding season to nest in burrows or rocky crevices on remote islands. The golden head tufts that adorn adults during breeding season signal sexual maturity and help attract mates. The shimmering reflection in the water highlights their intimate connection with the ocean, which serves as both their hunting ground and the link between nesting sites and open sea in Alaska’s wild coastal ecosystems. Photographer: Sean Neilson