Razorbill sightings have been occurring on both coasts of Florida over the past week. Until now, there were less than 10 confirmed sightings in state history. They are showing up in massive numbers on the east coast. On the Gulf Coast they have been spotted off of Anna Maria Island, Venice, Stump Pass (Englewood) and Sanibel Island.
In North America, Razorbills feed in the colder waters of the North Atlantic Ocean, from Maritime Canada to southern New England. In the winter, they move as far south as New Jersey, sometimes Virginia. The theory regarding the Florida invasion is that Hurricane Sandy greatly disrupted their food supply, driving them further south.
We've read reports about birders from all over Florida going out to get a glimpse (and photos) of the Razorbill. We didn't want to miss our chance so, on Friday the 14th we went to Stump Pass and walked up and down the beach for about 3 hours, nothing. Then on Saturday the 15th, we spent most of the afternoon on Anna Maria Island, nothing. Today, we drove to the Venice Jetty (south side) and walked to the end of the rock pier, nothing. As we started walking back to the car we spotted one, then two more swimming together. Many have described their appearance as miniature Penguins. We saw a total of five and took over 400 photos, many from 15-20 feet from us. Enjoy these photos of the Razorbill, a very rare Florida visitor.....tweet.....tweet!!
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| Razorbill (Taken 12/17/2012, South Jetty, Venice FL) |
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| Pair of Razorbills looking for food (Taken 12/17/2012, South Jetty, Venice FL) |
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| Razorbill (Swimming underwater) (Taken 12/17/2012, South Jetty, Venice FL) |
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Razorbill
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