Auks are a family of seabirds, found in the northern hemisphere. They are known for their ability to swim and dive underwater for food. Some common synonyms for the word "auks" include puffins, guillemots, murres, and razorbills. Puffins, which have colorful beaks, are easily recognized by their distinctive appearance. The guillemots and murres are black and white seabirds with slender bills. Razorbills, on the other hand, have short, thick beaks that are used to catch small fish and other aquatic prey. Regardless of their differences, all of these birds have adapted to life in the harsh, cold environments of the arctic and sub-arctic regions.