Razorbill
Alca torda
Conservation Status
Least ConcernAves · Charadriiformes · Alcidae
About
The razorbill is a North Atlantic colonial seabird and the only extant member of the genus Alca of the family Alcidae, the auks. It is the closest living relative of the extinct great auk. Historically, it has also been known as "auk", "razor-billed auk" and "lesser auk".
Fun Fact
Razorbills lay a single pear-shaped egg on bare cliff ledges; the shape causes the egg to spin in circles rather than roll off the edge.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Habitat is islands, rocky shores, and cliffs on northern Atlantic coasts, in eastern North America as far south as Maine, and in western Europe from northwestern Russia to northern France.
Diet
Diet of razorbill is very similar to that of a common murre or common guillemot.
Lifespan
13 years
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance