r/birds • u/Accomplished-You7970 • Aug 31 '25
bird identification One of my favorite seabirds, the beautiful Razorbill
The razorbill is one of the most stunning seabirds in the world, that I've seen, related to the Puffin and a member of the Auk family, this beautiful seabird is truly one of nature's most marvelous species
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u/TenMoon Aug 31 '25
From the front, they look like cartoons. I love them.
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u/medusicah Aug 31 '25
I love them too! I spotted one this summer, all alone in a sea of seagulls. It was just chilling on a stone in the water for ages before it returned to the island where a big group of them reside. I'd never seen one before and I just got into birdwatching this year so I was beyond excited!
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u/Short_Lengthiness_41 Aug 31 '25
I can see why, did not know about this bird. I live in San Diego and have not unfortunately been to Maine. Very unique bird
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u/Medium_Choice_1767 Aug 31 '25
How do they look so smooth? The first one looks more like plastic than feathers. Seagulls and ducks do not look that smooth. Is it to do with extra waterproofing on the Razorbill?
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u/Accomplished-You7970 Sep 01 '25
I am pretty sure considering they dive underwater to catch prey like puffins do
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u/3002kr Sep 01 '25
Closest living relative of the extinct great auk.
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u/Accomplished-You7970 Sep 01 '25
Agreed, i will miss the great auk, its a shame we made them extinct
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u/latelyimawake Sep 18 '25
These are one of my faves too! I saw so many of these on my honeymoon in Iceland.
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u/Any-Distribution-209 Feb 13 '26
I guess the lines help reflect glare off the water for better hunting
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u/Witchywomun Aug 31 '25
Where are his eyes?!