Birdsong field guide
Long-billed Murrelet
Brachyramphus perdix
A small, mysterious North Pacific auk formerly grouped with the Marbled Murrelet, distinguished by its larger size and longer bill.
What it sounds like
High-pitched, shrill 'keer' or whistling notes, typically sharper than its close relatives.
Reference call, compare with what you heard
No reference call found yet · Xeno-canto
Field notes
- It nests high in the branches of old-growth coniferous trees, often several kilometers inland from the ocean.
- The species was only officially recognized as distinct from the Marbled Murrelet in 1997 based on genetic evidence.
- It is known for extreme vagrancy, occasionally appearing in landlocked North American lakes thousands of miles from its range.
- In breeding plumage, it features a cryptic, dark brown mottled pattern to blend into forest canopies.
- Unlike most alcids, it is often found in pairs or small groups rather than large, dense colonies.
Habitat
Inshore coastal waters during winter; old-growth forests for nesting.
Range
Western Pacific coasts of Russia, Japan, and Korea, with rare occurrences in North America.
Similar & commonly confused birds
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