Common Murre
The Common Murre, also known as the thin-billed murre or common guillemot, is a seabird that can be found in Alaska. It is part of the auk family and is closely related to puffins and razorbills. These birds are often seen in large colonies on rocky cliffs and islands along the coast.
The common murre is a medium-sized bird, typically measuring around 16-18 inches in length and weighing around 2 pounds. They have a distinctive black and white plumage, with black on their head, back, and wings, and white on their belly. During breeding season, the birds develop a dark line that extends from their eyes to their beak, giving them a striking appearance. One of the most amazing features of the common murre is its ability to dive deep underwater in search of food. They have strong wings that allow them to "fly" underwater, and can dive to depths of up to 600 feet in search of fish, squid, and other small marine creatures. They are also able to hold their breath for up to a minute while diving. |
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Common murres typically breed on rocky cliffs and islands, where they lay a single egg on a narrow ledge or crevice. The eggs are oblong, shaped almost like a light bulb, which keeps them from rolling off the cliffs. Both parents take turns incubating the egg and caring for the chick once it hatches. The chicks are able to swim and dive shortly after hatching, and are often seen jumping from their nest sites into the ocean below.
In Alaska, common murres are often seen on wildlife cruises and tours, where visitors can view the birds in their natural habitat. These tours provide a unique opportunity to see these seabirds up close, as well as other marine wildlife such as whales, sea otters, and sea lions.
While the common murre is not currently listed as threatened or endangered, their populations have been impacted by oil spills, overfishing, and predation by introduced species such as rats. On Gull Island in Kachemak Bay, Common Murre populations have dropped in recent years which is thougth to be due to increased bald eagle activity frequently disrupting them from their nests. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these birds and their habitats, including the establishment of marine reserves and the removal of invasive species from nesting sites.
Overall, the common murre is an important part of Alaska's diverse marine ecosystem, and a fascinating bird to observe in the wild. Whether on a cruise or exploring the coast by kayak or hiking, visitors to Alaska have the opportunity to witness the natural beauty and wonder of these unique seabirds.
In Alaska, common murres are often seen on wildlife cruises and tours, where visitors can view the birds in their natural habitat. These tours provide a unique opportunity to see these seabirds up close, as well as other marine wildlife such as whales, sea otters, and sea lions.
While the common murre is not currently listed as threatened or endangered, their populations have been impacted by oil spills, overfishing, and predation by introduced species such as rats. On Gull Island in Kachemak Bay, Common Murre populations have dropped in recent years which is thougth to be due to increased bald eagle activity frequently disrupting them from their nests. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these birds and their habitats, including the establishment of marine reserves and the removal of invasive species from nesting sites.
Overall, the common murre is an important part of Alaska's diverse marine ecosystem, and a fascinating bird to observe in the wild. Whether on a cruise or exploring the coast by kayak or hiking, visitors to Alaska have the opportunity to witness the natural beauty and wonder of these unique seabirds.