Common Murre song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Common Murre, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

Common Murres do not have a complex song. Vocalizations are mostly guttural, croaking, and grunting calls, especially at the colony.

Calls

Main calls are low, guttural 'arrr', 'aahhhrrr', or 'grrr' notes, often repeated rapidly. These are used in colonial contexts for advertising presence, aggression, and recognition between mates and parent-chick. Fledglings emit a high-pitched 'peep' or whistle to solicit food.

When they vocalize

Most vocal during the breeding season when on their cliff colonies. Less vocal at sea, though occasionally emit grunts or growls.

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