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The Razorbill Invasion of Florida

10,000 Birds

There is a reason why birds (and mammals and large, predatory sharks) like alcids, albatrosses, penguins, and other seabirds are restricted to the poles or areas of cold water upwellings — tropical waters lack the ability to hold onto as much oxygen as colder water. This irruption will likely be discussed and studied for years to come.

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Petrel Paradise

10,000 Birds

In particular the South Island destination of Kaikoura is world-renowned for the flocks of albatrosses and giant petrels floating right off the pelagic boat, and the ease of the trip makes it a must-visit for any visiting birder. As we left the long harbour there were plenty of inshore seabirds such as gannets, shags, gulls and terns.

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Stalking a Kiwi Icon

10,000 Birds

There are are presently thought to be five species of kiwi with a possible sixth extinct species, all of which have suffered varying degrees of range contraction since the arrival of humans. For all its cultural ubiquity in New Zealand, actually seeing a wild kiwi is actually quite a challenging proposition for a birder.