Date: 12/31/25 5:22 pm From: Josiah Clark via groups.io <josiah.clark621...> Subject: [SFBirds] ancient Murrelet close to shore at seal rock
While collecting some dungeness
crab for New Year’s in less than ideal conditions, I found myself in the
lee of Seal rock and in the company of an ancient murrelet finding the
same respite.
It was unusually trusting as far as Kayak encounters with Murrelets go. Sadly,
my phone was too cold and wet to capture the moment. Nor could I make a
quick post from the water, but I tried.It did not dive or fly away from my
presence and it was a special moment.
Hopefully, it’s just seeking refuge from the storm and not in poor health.
I predict reports of this is happening all up and down the coast for the
next few days.
I did note the bird pick up from a distance and fly back to the front of
the drift to stay in the calm water so it’s possible it will be there
tomorrow.
In retrospect I also realized 4-5 Murrelets I scoped off Ocean Beach
last week and reported as marbled were likely Ancient as well l as there
seems to be a significant incursion of them at the moment.
Josiah Clark | Habitat Potential | Consulting Ecologist | 415.317.3978
License #1043929
habitatpotential.net
www.youtube.com/josiahmtclark
