ML618443544

Age

Not specified

Sex

Not specified

Observation details

On exiting the glacier, I was brought attention to two small ripples on the water suggestive of a murrelet dive. A few seconds later, two small alcids popped up above the water. On binocular view, I was quickly made aware of the bold white facial patches which extended above the eyes. Knowing that Kittlitz's was a possibility in the region, having studied differences between murrelets ahead of time, and having seen dozens upon dozens of Marbled Murrelets within the past few hours, I was instantly struck by the obvious differences. The two birds dove back into the water and I got my camera out. Unfortunately, the birds appeared way further out than I expected based on where they dove down. However, I managed to snap a short series of photos just barely showing the diagnostic white facial patches along with the pale, white outer rectrices. GISS and location of the birds foraging near a glacial outflow are all fairly consistent with Kittlitz's Murrelet. An absolute privilege to see one of the most enigmatic of organisms. Will post photos soon.

Technical information

Dimensions

640 pixels x 480 pixels

Original file size

50.21 KB