BirdNote Daily Razorbills Swim in Synchrony
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Jan 15, 2026 Dive into the world of Razorbills, fascinating seabirds that nest on cliffs. These social creatures display remarkable synchronized swimming patterns before laying eggs. Watch them swim in tight circles, then dive together, surfacing with their bills held open. Marvel at their coordinated zig-zagging through the ocean, showcasing both unity and skill. Discover the unique bond these birds form as many mate for life, illustrating their intricate social dynamics.
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Razorbill Description And Diving Skill
- Razorbills are black seabirds with white underparts and a distinct dark bill marked in white.
- They dive with wing-propelled flight to hunt small fish and can reach depths below 300 feet.
Colony Nesting And Prelaying Ritual
- Razorbills nest in colonies on Icelandic coasts in crevices among boulders and often pair for life.
- Before laying eggs, they swim round and round in tight masses, then dive and surface together with bills open.
Synchronized Swimming Behaviors
- Razorbills perform two distinct synchronized group behaviors before breeding: circular mass dives and lined zig-zag swimming.
- These coordinated movements help them synchronize breeding and hunting as social hunters.