The Razorbill - Ireland's Distinctive Seabird

The razorbill is one of Ireland's most distinctive seabirds. A member of the auk family, which includes puffins and guillemots, these species are found in the lovely North Atlantic where Ireland is also located.

Linnaeus named the family Alca after the Norwegian word Alke for Razorbill, but it's the Irish name that tells a more interesting story. The Irish name for the razorbill, Crosán, shares its name with jester, starfish and being full after eating too much. Rather confusing...but it also means little cross which is likely the origins of the name for this distinctive bird.

These amazing, assassin birds can dive up to 120 metres in search of prey under the cold and choppy waters of the Atlantic for fish. Razorbills nest on rocky cliffs and feed in waters close to shore, adding to the rich tapestry of coastal life around Irish shores.

For more detailed information about razorbill behavior and photography, including their distinctive yellow gape and bill-gaping displays, visit: Panoramic Ireland - Razorbill Photography