TaxonHub

Common Murre / Guillemot

Uria aalge

A large seabird species belonging to the Alcidae family, widely distributed across North Atlantic and North Pacific coastal regions, characterized by its black and white plumage and marine diving capabilities.

Image Gallery

ADSENSE SLOT

Ecology & Habitat

Habitat

Rocky coastal cliffs, marine islands, and offshore oceanic environments with cold to temperate waters, primarily in northern hemispheric regions between 45°N and 80°N latitude

Ecological Role

Critical marine predator and indicator species, playing significant roles in marine food webs by consuming fish and marine invertebrates, and serving as prey for larger marine predators

Morphology

SKIN COAT Dense waterproof plumage with black dorsal and white ventral coloration, providing thermal insulation and camouflage
LIMBS WINGS Short, narrow wings enabling underwater 'flight', webbed feet positioned posteriorly for efficient swimming
HEAD SENSORY Robust, pointed bill adapted for capturing marine prey, excellent binocular vision for underwater hunting
BODY STRUCTURE Compact, torpedo-shaped body optimized for marine diving, approximately 40-45 cm in length, weighing 750-1200 g

Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Hobbyfotowiki

ADSENSE VERTICAL