Xantus's Murrelet is a small, pelagic seabird found in the waters off California and Baja California, known for its distinct black and white plumage.
Where to spot
Breeds on islands off Baja California, Mexico. Spends most of its life offshore in the waters of the California Current, ranging north to California.
How to spot
Best seen offshore, often in small groups. Look for its small size, stark black upperparts and clean white underparts, and compare carefully with Scripps's Murrelet for subtle differences in extent of dark plumage.
When to spot
Can be observed year-round at sea, particularly in pelagic waters. Visits breeding colonies from winter to summer.
Where to spot
Breeds on islands off Baja California, Mexico. Spends most of its life offshore in the waters of the California Current, ranging north to California.
How to spot
Best seen offshore, often in small groups. Look for its small size, stark black upperparts and clean white underparts, and compare carefully with Scripps's Murrelet for subtle differences in extent of dark plumage.
When to spot
Can be observed year-round at sea, particularly in pelagic waters. Visits breeding colonies from winter to summer.
This species was recently split from Scripps's Murrelet, distinguishable by subtle differences in plumage and vocalizations, highlighting the complexity of seabird taxonomy.
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