Species Facts

Conservation Status: IUCN Least Concern

Description: These striking seabirds are sometimes mistaken for penguins because of their black-and-white coloration and sometimes upright posture. During the breeding season, their heads are fully black and during the winter/non-breeding season they will show more white on their throat and face. They have a sharp, pointed black bill and dark legs and feet. Some populations also have a white eye ring with a white line extending back toward the ear.

Play Common Murre call:

Where to find them: Common Murres spend most of their time out at sea in the cold waters of the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. They gather in colonies on coastal cliffs for the breeding season.

Fun Facts:

• Common Murre eggs are specially shaped to help prevent them from rolling out of their rocky cliff nests
• Once a Common Murre chick fledges, the father becomes the primary caregiver and teaches the young bird how to survive at sea.

Threats: Warming ocean waters, food availability, oil spills

How YOU can Help:

Learn to recognize a bird in distress! Choose sustainably sourced seafood (visit Seafood Watch for more information)