Guadalupe Murrelet

The Guadalupe Murrelet is a relatively newly recognized species of auk found in the Pacific Ocean off California and Mexico. The species was split from the Xantus's Murrelet, along with the Scripp's Murrelet, in 2012.

Guadalupe Murrelets feed far out in the ocean outside of breeding season. They are often found around larger pelagic fish species. As is typical with auk species, the Guadalupe Murrelet feeds by diving under the water, propelling itself with its wings.

Baby Guadalupe Murrelets are highly precocial. This means that they are able to care for themselves at a very early age. The chicks leave the nest after just two days, joining their parents at sea.