The Ancient Murrelet is a small, distinctive seabird of the North Pacific, characterized by its black-and-white plumage with a white supercilium, and its nocturnal return to breeding colonies.
Where to spot
Breeds on islands and coastal areas across the North Pacific, from Alaska to Japan. Winters in offshore waters within a similar range.
How to spot
Look for its black cap, white supercilium, and clean white underparts. Often seen in small to large flocks offshore, diving frequently for prey. Distinguishing from similar species requires close attention.
When to spot
Most easily observed at sea year-round. Visits breeding colonies nocturnally from spring to late summer, so observation on land is rare.
Where to spot
Breeds on islands and coastal areas across the North Pacific, from Alaska to Japan. Winters in offshore waters within a similar range.
How to spot
Look for its black cap, white supercilium, and clean white underparts. Often seen in small to large flocks offshore, diving frequently for prey. Distinguishing from similar species requires close attention.
When to spot
Most easily observed at sea year-round. Visits breeding colonies nocturnally from spring to late summer, so observation on land is rare.
Unlike many seabirds, Ancient Murrelet chicks leave their burrow nests only a few days after hatching, scrambling to the sea at night to join their parents for the first time.
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