Razorbills, Puffins, and the Magic of L’Île aux Perroquets — 2025 Workshop Wrap-Up

There's a special kind of magic that happens on L’Île aux Perroquets — a tiny, windswept island off the coast of Quebec, where seabirds soar above the Gulf of St. Lawrence and every corner hums with wild beauty.

As we wrapped up our 2025 Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Workshops, one moment stood out in particular: a Razorbill slicing through the air, a glimmering fish clamped tightly in its beak. With powerful, purposeful wingbeats, it returned to its burrow hidden among the rocks — where a hungry chick waited for dinner. It's these small, fleeting encounters that stay with us long after we've left the island.

Razorbills, though often overshadowed by their more famous cousins, the Atlantic Puffins, are just as captivating. They're expert divers, capable of reaching depths of over 100 meters in search of prey. Monogamous and fiercely devoted, these birds return each year to the same breeding grounds — and often the same mate — to raise their single chick.

L’Île aux Perroquets is one of the rare places in Quebec where you can witness this intimate part of their life cycle up close. Alongside the Razorbills, we shared the island with thousands of Puffins, Common Murres, and the occasional curious Gray Seal or passing Minke Whale (We saw 25 different individuals — including a couple of calves — in a single afternoon). The biodiversity here is astounding, and every day offered new sights, sounds, and stories.

Our home for the workshops — the beautifully restored lighthouse keeper's house — offered cozy accommodations, warm meals, and a front-row seat to one of North America's most unique seabird colonies. As always, it was a dream setting for photography, learning, and meaningful connection with nature.

Looking back at the smiling faces in our final group photo, it's clear: this place leaves a mark. Whether it was the thrill of capturing the perfect in-flight shot, watching Puffins clumsily land in the grass, or soaking in the island's serenity under the midnight sun, everyone left with full memory cards and fuller hearts.

Until next time, L’Île aux Perroquets — merci for another unforgettable experience. Adieu!

Learn more and sign-up here