Thick-billed Murre: Connecticut Audubon Bird Finder for February 19
On a trip he led to Montauk this month, Andy Griswold, director of our EcoTravel program, found two Thick-billed Murres in waters less than 16 miles from Connecticut; and Frank Gallo, associate director of our Milford Point Coastal Center, saw one briefly at Hammonasset Beach State Park.
Thick-billed Murres
Thick-billed Murre
Uria lonvia
What it looks like: The Thick-billed Murre is in the Alcid family, composed of 21 species in 10 genera, found on both coasts of North America. Included in the family are familiar birds like Atlantic Puffin and Dovekie.
Two similar species to the Thick-billed Murre are the Common Murre (the less common of the two murres) and Razorbill. For comparison, the photos below are of the Common Murre (top) and Razorbill.
At about 18 inches in length, this is not a large bird and may initially strike you as being a loon or grebe. Distinctive among water birds, is the black and white color scheme of Alcids; black above and white below with a clear separation of the two colors, even visible as such while the bird is sitting on the water.
Common Murre
In winter, which is when we are most likely to see the three similar looking Alcid species, they are most easily separated by the Thick-billed’s short pointed bill, Common’s long straight bill and post ocular stripe, and Razorbill’s deep, blunt-nosed bill. With a little practice, you will be a pro before long.
Where to find it: With the significant number of winter storms we have been experiencing this year, this is a species one should keep an eye out for. Check coastal coves, inland lakes, and anywhere you can get a big view after big winds.
How to find it: After and during heavy winds, look for a small bird on the water or buzzing by on a blur of wings. Look for the distinctive black above and white below. Using a spotting scope, scan the waters and think in “black and white.”
Razorbill
What if it isn’t there: Thick-billed Murre can be found as a single bird or in small groups. In the same area, look for many of the winter duck species including Black, White-winged, and Surf Scoter, Long-tailed Duck, Common Goldeneye, and more. Common and Red-throated Loon, and Horned and Red-necked Grebe should not be far away.
Conservation status: Thick-billed Murre like all water birds are vulnerable to things such as oil spills. As this species is a diving bird, it has on occasion fallen victim to gill-netting. Populations appear to be stable or slightly increasing except for the Greenland population which is decreasing.
This week’s Connecticut Audubon Society Bird Finder was written by Andy Griswold, director of our EcoTravel program, and edited by Tom Andersen
Photo of Thick-billed Murres is from the Crossley ID Guide Eastern Birds. Common Murre is by Bill Burton and Razorbill is by Wildlifeshoots, both from CarolinaBirds.org
