Facts for Kids

The common murre, also known as common guillemot, is a large bird belonging to the auk family. 🐦

They are found mainly in the northern parts of the world, especially in North America and Europe. Common murres are very good divers and can dive up to 600 feet deep in the ocean! They are black and white, making them look like they are wearing a tuxedo! 🎩

They have a pointed beak that helps them catch fish. These amazing birds are agile swimmers and can catch their food underwater.

Common murres are mostly resident birds, meaning they don't migrate far. 🗺

️ However, in winter, some individuals may move to more southern coastal areas depending on food availability. They usually return to their breeding colonies in spring to nest, where they can find safety in large groups. It’s fascinating to see how some birds travel long distances, while common murres often stick close to home! Even though they don’t migrate far, they wander around to find good fishing spots 🌊 during different seasons.

The common murre is not currently endangered, but their populations can be affected by environmental changes. 🌍

Issues like oil spills, pollution, and climate change can harm their food sources and nesting areas. Some populations have declined due to overfishing and predation from animals like rats on breeding islands. Groups are working hard to protect these birds, their habitats, and ensure their numbers remain stable. 🌱

It’s important for us to take care of our oceans and coastlines to help common murres thrive!

Common murres are excellent divers! 🤿

They dive deep into the ocean, using their wings to swim and catch small fish like herring and sand lance. These birds are highly social and often feed in groups, making it easier to find meals. They can hold their breath for about 3 minutes while diving! 🌊

You can often see them diving in a coordinated manner. When they're not swimming, they usually rest on the water's surface or on cliffs, enjoying the sun.

Common murres are devoted parents! 💕

They typically breed in large colonies on steep cliffs during the summer months. They lay just one egg each year, and both parents take turns keeping the egg warm. The eggs are often laid on rocky surfaces, usually in late May or June. 🥚

After about 28 days, the chick hatches, and both parents continue to feed and protect it. The baby murres are quite independent and can swim shortly after hatching, but they stay with their parents until they learn to dive and find food themselves.

Common murres love the ocean! 🌊

You can find them across the North Atlantic and North Pacific Oceans. In North America, they live mainly in places like Alaska, California, and the northern coastline of Canada. In Europe, they can be spotted along the coast of Norway, Iceland, and the British Isles. They prefer rocky islands and cliffs for nesting, where they don’t have to worry much about predators 🌄. During the summer, you can usually find a large gathering of common murres in their breeding colonies!

Common murres are about 18 to 20 inches long and can weigh between 2 to 3 pounds. They are known for their striking black heads and backs, white bellies, and sharp, pointed bills. The males and females look very similar, so it’s hard to tell them apart just by looks! 👀

Their wings are short and strong, which help them glide smoothly on the water. They also have webbed feet that act like paddles when swimming. These birds have a unique, streamlined body shape that makes them exceptional divers. 🏊

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Humans and common murres have a mixed relationship. 🤝

They are loved by birdwatchers and environmentalists who want to protect their habitats. However, human activities such as fishing and pollution can impact their lives negatively. Some places have set up special protections for the murres to help them thrive and to keep the oceans clean. 🥡

People can help by reducing pollution and supporting conservation efforts. Learning about these wonderful birds encourages us all to take care of our environment! 🌍

Common murres communicate with a variety of sounds! 🎶

They produce loud, growling calls, especially during the breeding season to attract mates and keep in touch with their chicks. These vocalizations can be heard over great distances on their cliffside nesting areas. They also use body language, like wing flapping and head bobbing, to communicate with each other! 🕊

️ This helps them stay connected in their large colonies. When you see them gathering in groups, they might be chatting away, keeping their family close!