Guadalupe murrelet
Synthliboramphus hypoleucus
The Guadalupe murrelet (Synthliboramphus hypoleucus) or Xantus's murrelet is a small seabird found in the California Current system in the Pacific Ocean.
About the Guadalupe murrelet
The Guadalupe murrelet (Synthliboramphus hypoleucus) or Xantus's murrelet is a small seabird found in the California Current system in the Pacific Ocean. This auk breeds on islands off California and Mexico. It is threatened by predators introduced to its breeding colonies and by oil spills. This species together with the Scripps's murrelet were considered conspecific and were classified under S. hypoleucus; known collectively as Xantus's murrelet until 2012. Enough evidence was collected to consider both species distinct based on a lack of evidence of interbreeding where the two species nest together on the San Benito Islands, differences in facial pattern and bill shape, vocalizations and genetics.
Fun Facts About Guadalupe murrelet
- It is threatened by predators introduced to its breeding colonies and by oil spills.
- Enough evidence was collected to consider both species distinct based on a lack of evidence of interbreeding where the two species nest together on the San Benito Islands, differences in facial pattern and bill shape, vocalizations and genetics.
- hypoleucus; known collectively as Xantus's murrelet until 2012.
- This auk breeds on islands off California and Mexico.
Conservation Status
The Guadalupe murrelet is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. This species is at significant risk of extinction and requires active conservation efforts.
Taxonomy & Classification
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Alcidae |
| Genus | Synthliboramphus |
| Species | Synthliboramphus hypoleucus |
Range & Habitat
🛍️ Guadalupe murrelet Gifts & Merch
Show your love for guadalupe murrelets! Find t-shirts, hoodies, stickers, mugs, and more at our store.
Browse Guadalupe murrelet Merch →Related Species
Other species in the Alcidae family: