Marbled Murrelet - Sierra Club BC
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Marbled Murrelet

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Marbled Murrelet

Brachyramphus marmoratus

Appearance

Marbled murrelets are small seabirds that weighs about 200 grams. In the winter they are black with white underparts and in the summer they are brown with mottled white and brown on their throat, chest and abdomen. 

Range & Habitat

They are found in Asia, Alaska and the Pacific Northwest. Scientists estimate that 40,000 to 50,000 of these birds live in the wild. Murrelets spend most of their lives in the ocean, but come inland to nest. 

Reciprocal Relationships

The marbled murrelet plays an important role in marine ecosystem balance. These birds primarily feed on sandlance, herring, squid, rockfish, and other small fish and crustaceans. Typically, these birds would be prey for larger birds such as crows or jays.  
 
The marbled murrelet was a mystery to conservationists for quite some time. It seemed like no one could figure out where they nested! Why would a seabird nest so far inland when their primary diet is marine fish and crustaceans? The marbled murrelet nests in old-growth forests, on large moss and lichen-covered tree branches.  
 
Due to the clearcutting of these ancient forests in B.C., marbled murrelet populations are endangered. This is one of many reasons old-growth forests need to be protected.

Status

COSEWIC: Threatened 
CDC: Blue (up for Red designation) 

More Information

If you belong to a First Nation with a story or piece of information not represented here and you would like to share more about this species, please email us at education@sierraclub.bc.ca

Photo Credit

Deborah Freeman

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