Murrelet meaning

A murrelet is a small seabird that often nests in old-growth forests, unlike the majority of seabirds that nest on rocky cliffs or small islands.


Murrelet definitions

Word backwards telerrum
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division mur-re-let
Plural The plural of murrelet is murrelets.
Total letters 8
Vogais (2) u,e
Consonants (4) m,r,l,t

Murrelets are small seabirds that belong to the Alcidae family, which also includes puffins and guillemots. They are known for their unique behavior of nesting in old-growth forests rather than on the rocky cliffs or islands like other seabirds.

Murrelets are found along the North Pacific coasts from California to Alaska, across the Aleutian Islands, and down to Japan. They have also been spotted in parts of Russia and Canada. These seabirds prefer to nest in mature coniferous forests near the coast.

Behavior and Habitat

Murrelets are known for their distinctive courtship flights, where the male and female fly together in intricate patterns above the forest canopy. The female will then lay a single egg on a mossy platform in the tree canopy, often on large branches or in tree cavities.

Conservation Status

Murrelets are facing threats from habitat loss due to logging and forest fragmentation. Conservation efforts are underway to protect their nesting sites and preserve the old-growth forests that are crucial for their survival.

Feeding Habits

Murrelets are primarily fish-eaters, diving underwater to catch small fish and invertebrates. They can swim underwater using their wings to propel themselves and can stay submerged for up to a minute while chasing their prey.

Overall, murrelets are fascinating seabirds with unique nesting habits and behaviors. Conservation efforts are essential to ensure the survival of these birds and the preservation of their coastal forest habitats.


Murrelet Examples

  1. The Marbled Murrelet is a small seabird that nests in old-growth forests.
  2. Scientists are studying the behavior of the murrelet to understand its migration patterns.
  3. Birdwatchers gather on the coast to catch a glimpse of the elusive murrelet.
  4. A conservation group is working to protect important murrelet habitat along the Pacific Northwest.
  5. The murrelet's distinctive call can be heard echoing through the redwoods.
  6. The population of the Ancient Murrelet has been declining due to habitat destruction.
  7. The murrelet is known for its ability to dive deep underwater in search of food.
  8. Tourists come to the area to take a boat tour and spot a murrelet in its natural habitat.
  9. The Marbled Murrelet chick is able to swim and dive within hours of hatching.
  10. Bird enthusiasts travel to various islands to observe the Long-billed Murrelet in its breeding grounds.


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  • Updated 17/06/2024 - 23:53:08