For the first time in 99 years Common Murres are nesting in California’s Channel Islands. Prince Island is hosting the nesting seabirds, one of thirteen nesting seabird species there. Here’s hoping that lots of young fledge and this colony lasts a very, very, very long time!
Just as an aside: It’s a major spectacle every June on the North Sea Island of Helgoland to watch the 3 week-old Common Murre chicks jump from their nests more than 100 feet high on the cliffs into the water below following the call of their parents. This usually takes place at dusk when the waters are calm. Since observers have to stay overnight it’s a major source of income to the islanders.