Collection: Little Penguin

The razorbill ( Alca torda ) is a remarkable seabird found on the cliffs of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Magdalen Islands. Although it resembles a penguin, it can fly and belongs to the alcid family. It is recognizable by its black and white plumage and its stubby, ridged beak. An excellent diver, it feeds on fish and invertebrates that it catches while freediving. In summer, it nests in colonies on rocky islands, often in the company of guillemots or northern gannets. The razorbill is sensitive to disturbances, pollution, and fluctuations in its prey. Although its population has declined in some areas, it remains an essential indicator of the health of Quebec's marine ecosystems. Watching its acrobatic dives is a unique spectacle, revealing the ingenuity of the seabirds of our coastline.