Common Murre

Murres inhabit the Pacific coast from Alaska to central California. They may be found on cliffs during the summer nesting season, but are found mostly at sea the rest of the year.

1. Body with black back, neck and head, and white belly during summers. Winter plummage is similar but with a white cheek and throat, with a black streak through the cheek.

2. Bill is slender, long and pointed. It is solid black in coloration.

3. Voice is similar to its name.

4. Murres eat fish by diving underwater to catch them. They typically dive to depths of 30 feet, but may dive deeper.

5. Common murres nest in colonies on seaside cliffs or on small islands off the coast. The nest may include a few stones brought to the nest site, but eggs are typically deposited on bare ledges.

6. The young leave the nest before ready for flight, typically gliding to the sea's surface where they may learn to fish.