Scripps's Murrelet
NameScripps's Murrelet
Common NameScripps's Murrelet
Scientific NameSynthliboramphus scrippsi
FamilyAlcidae
Wingspan (cm)38
Length (cm)24
Weight (g)165
Plumage DetailsAdults have dark sooty-black upperparts, head, and hindneck, contrasting sharply with clean white underparts. A distinct white patch extends up the side of the neck and face, often with a white crescent above and below the eye. The bill is small and pointed, and black.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include high-pitched whistles, trills, and squeaks, primarily heard around breeding colonies at night.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeBreeds on islands off southern California (USA) and Baja California (Mexico). Disperses into surrounding offshore waters.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Black upperparts, white underparts, White crescent above and below eye, Short, pointed black bill, Pelagic behavior, Nocturnal breeding on islands
Description
The Scripps's Murrelet is a small, pelagic seabird characterized by its striking black and white plumage. It spends most of its life at sea, coming ashore only to breed on offshore islands, often nesting in rock crevices or burrows.
