Ancient Murrelet

Identification

The ancient murrelet is a small auk, measuring 20–24 cm in length with a wingspan of 45–46 cm and weighing 150–250 g. In summer plumage, it is distinctive: black on the head, throat, and rear neck, with a grey back and white underparts. Fine white streaks on the crown give breeding adults an aged appearance—the origin of their evocative common name. The bill is short, stubby, and yellow. In flight, ancient murrelets are notably agile, banking steeply from side to side more than other small auks, powered by rapid wing beats characteristic of short-winged alcids.

Range & Habitat

Ancient murrelets breed across the northern Pacific rim from the Yellow Sea through the Russian Pacific coast and Aleutian Islands to Haida Gwaii in British Columbia, which hosts about half the world population. Most colonies nest on remote islands in the North Pacific. Remarkably, some birds undertake epic migrations of 8,000 kilometres from Canada to winter waters off Japan and China—the only bird known to cross the entire North Pacific. Others winter closer, migrating only as far as California. Genetic evidence suggests the species originated in Asia and only recently colonized North America, making their trans-Pacific journeys a return to ancestral grounds.

Behaviour & Diet

Ancient murrelets are diving alcids that forage underwater using their wings for propulsion. They feed mainly on crustaceans in winter, supplemented by small fish in summer; off Haida Gwaii, small mesopelagic fish form the bulk of their diet. Their breeding biology is remarkable: they nest in colonies in burrows among tree roots, under logs, or in grass tussocks on forested islands, laying one or two eggs. Parents arrive and depart only at night to avoid predators. Most extraordinarily, chicks leave the nest just 1–3 days after hatching and are escorted to sea by their parents, recognizing each other by call. The family then travels up to 48 kilometres offshore, usually nocturnally, where chicks are fed exclusively at sea for over a month. Ancient murrelets spend less time on land than any other bird species.

Best Time & Places to See It

Visiting breeding colonies requires permits and specialist knowledge; Frederick Island in British Columbia hosts one of the largest. Spring and early summer offer the best chance to observe this elusive species at colonies. However, ancient murrelets are more accessible during their wintering grounds off Japan and China. The return migration begins in February, with birds making daily flights of four to five hours. Due to their nocturnal habits on land and swift oceanic lifestyle, even dedicated birders find them challenging. Occasional vagrants appear far from their normal range—notably, one individual returned to Lundy Island in Devon, England, for three consecutive springs beginning in 1990.

Photography Tips

Photographing ancient murrelets demands patience and specialized equipment. Pelagic boat trips near major colonies or wintering grounds offer the best opportunities for distant sightings. Use fast shutter speeds to freeze their rapid, darting flight and erratic banking behaviour. Early morning light during breeding season may reveal birds returning to or departing colonies, though nocturnal timing limits options. Offshore, capture their characteristic low-profile swimming posture and diving behaviour. A sturdy tripod and image stabilization are essential on deck; expect challenging light and rough water. Respect restricted access to breeding islands and always follow local guidelines for seabird observation.