Razorbill

The Razorbill is a large auk of the North Atlantic, generally similar in appearance to Murre species found in the same area, but with a decidedly thicker bill and longer tail. They breed along the coast in southeastern Canada, and on a few select spots off the coast of Maine, but in winter, birds can be found along the U.S. coast as far south as Virginia, and rarely, even further south.  The species is also found on the eastern side of the Atlantic, with the largest population of breeding Razorbills found in Iceland.  They are also found as far east as Russia.  They are typically considered the closest living relative to the Great Auk, a large extinct auk once found in the North Atlantic.

Habitat: Nests on rocky areas along the coast, both on offshore islands and on the mainland.  Outside of the breeding season, may be found relatively close to shore, to well out to sea.

Diet: Feeds mostly on fish, although they will also sometimes take crustaceans or other small marine creatures.

Behavior: Feeds by swimming underwater, mostly relatively near the surface.

Nesting: Nests in colonies on cliffs, rocky shorelines, or other rocky areas on islands or on the coast.  The nest consists of a small pile of pebbles or vegetation, although sometimes no nest is constructed and the egg is laid directly on the ground.  One egg is laid, and both parents help to incubate it.  Upon hatching, both parents help to feed the youngster.

Song: On their breeding grounds, they make a low, rattling, guttural sound.  They are typically silent away from their breeding grounds.

Migration: In the North American part of their range, summers in eastern Canada (Newfoundland, Labrador).  Winters offshore, from areas near their breeding grounds, to as far south as Virginia on the U.S. coast.

Interactive eBird Map: Click here to access an interactive eBird map of Razorbill sightings

Similar Species: Common Murre, Thick-billed Murre

Conservation Status: Populations of Razorbills appear to be increasing, and the IUCN lists the Razorbill as a species of "Least Concern".

Further Information: 1) Cornell's All About Birds - Razorbill

2) Audubon Guides - Razorbill

3) Royal Society for the Protection of Birds - Razorbill

Photo Information: Photo taken by Darrel Birkett - July 4th, 2010 - Staple Island, Farne - Photo licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic License.

 

Click below for a higher-resolution map

South Dakota Status: Non-resident in South Dakota

Additional Razorbill Photos (coming soon!!)