The Marbled Murrelet is a threatened seabird with one of the most unusual nesting habits of any bird — it nests in old-growth forest, laying a single egg on a moss-covered branch up to 50 miles from the sea. Loss of old-growth forests has caused severe population declines. Its first confirmed North American nest was not found until 1974.
Best time to see a Marbled Murrelet
The best time to see a Marbled Murrelet is May–August, when about 70% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 1,692 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Marbled Murrelet? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Marbled Murrelet sightings near you
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