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Ancient Murrelet Identification

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The Four Keys to ID

  • Size & Shape

    A small, heavy-bodied seabird, scarcely larger than an American Robin, with a small bill and short neck. It has a short tail and short, narrow, pointed wings.

    Relative Size

    Slightly larger than a Cassin's Auklet, smaller than a Pigeon Guillemot.

    Relative Sizebetween robin and crowbetween robin and crow

    Measurements
    • Both Sexes
      • Length: 7.9-9.4 in (20-24 cm)
      • Weight: 5.4-8.8 oz (153-250 g)
      • Wingspan: 17.7-18.1 in (45-46 cm)

    Shape of the Ancient Murrelet© Ryan Shaw / Macaulay Library