Status
Conservation status
This species is Red-listed
according to Birds of Conservation Concern in Ireland 2020-2026 and is of high
conservation value as a result.
The razorbill is classified as
‘Near Threatened’ on both a global and European scale according to the last
IUCN Red List assessment in 2018. The population trend was also noted as
decreasing.
Species Biology
Identification
This member of the Auck family
has a black back and head with a thick black beak and white underparts.
The Razorbill can be
distinguished from the similar looking Guillemot by its much thicker beak
compared to the thinner bill of the Guillemot. Additionally, the Razorbill is a
smaller bird with black upperparts compared to the lighter brown of the
Guillemot.
The Razorbill stands at
approximately 37-39 cm with a wingspan of 63-97 cm. Weight can range from 590-730 grams.
Diet
Being a marine bird species, the
Razorbill feeds on marine life such as fish like sandeels and sprats as well as
various invertebrate species.
Habitat
This species is associated with
marine habitats and will be found on suitable coasts and islands.
Suitable nesting habitat for this
species includes sea cliffs but it will also nest in screes and cracks in
cliffs that offer a secluded nesting site.
Reproduction
During the breeding season, a
single egg of approximately 90 grams is laid followed by an incubation period
of 32-39 days. The young will fledge after 14-24 days.
Average life expectancy for a
Razorbill is approximately thirteen years with individuals reaching breeding
age at about four years.
Threats faced
Pollution of the marine
environment and declining fish stocks are a significant driver in the decline
of the Razorbill.
Distribution
World distribution(GBIF)
Irish distribution
In a similar vein to the Puffin,
the Razorbill winters at sea and will only come to land during the breeding
season.
During the breeding season, there
are long established, large breeding colonies of Razorbill at the Cliffs of
Moher in county Clare, the Saltee Islands off County Wexford and Horn Head in
County Donegal and small colonies at other locations.
Temporal change
Records submitted to Data Centre in 2024
The following map is interactive. If you would prefer to view it full screen then click here.
Further information
BirdWatch Ireland: https://birdwatchireland.ie/birds/razorbill/
The Royal Society for the
Protection of Birds: https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/wildlife-guides/bird-a-z/razorbill/
British Trust for Ornithology: https://app.bto.org/birdfacts/results/bob6360.htm
IUCN Red List: https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22694852/131932615