Editing Auk (section)

== Description ==
Auks are superficially similar to [[penguin]]s, having black-and-white colours, upright posture, and some of their habits. Nevertheless, they are not closely related to penguins, but rather are believed to be an example of moderate [[convergent evolution]]. Auks are [[Sexual dimorphism|monomorphic]] (males and females are similar in appearance).

Extant auks range in size from the [[least auklet]], at 85 g (3 oz) and {{convert|15|cm|in|abbr=on}}, to the [[thick-billed murre]], at {{convert|1|kg|lb|abbr=on}} and {{convert|45|cm|in|abbr=on}}. Due to their short wings, auks have to flap their wings very quickly to fly.

Although not to the extent of penguins, auks have largely sacrificed flight, and also mobility on land, in exchange for swimming ability; their wings are a compromise between the best possible design for diving and the bare minimum needed for flying. This varies by subfamily, with the ''Uria'' guillemots (including the [[razorbill]]) and  murrelets being the most efficient under the water, whereas the puffins and auklets are better adapted for flying and walking.