Thick-billed Murre

Capturing the Thick-billed Murre on camera requires a strategic approach since they are rarely found in traditional 'backyards' unless you live on a rugged coastline. If you have a coastal property or access to a cliffside overlook, position your camera on a stable tripod or a secure rock mount facing the narrow ledges where birds congregate. Because of the high-contrast 'tuxedo' plumage, use a camera with a high dynamic range to avoid blowing out the white feathers in direct sunlight. A slightly underexposed setting is often safer than overexposing.

For those using trail cameras near colonies, timing is everything. The most dramatic footage occurs during 'the leap,' which usually happens in late July or August. This is when the three-week-old chicks, who cannot yet fly, jump from the high cliffs into the ocean to join their fathers. Set your camera to 'Burst Mode' or high-frame-rate video (60fps or higher) to capture this fast-moving action. Since these environments are often misty or sprayed with salt, a high-quality weather-sealed housing or a protective 'rain coat' for your camera is essential to prevent lens fogging and corrosion.

Because these birds are active throughout the long Arctic summer days, you can capture great footage at almost any hour. However, the 'golden hours' of early morning and late evening provide a softer light that highlights the subtle white line on their bill, which is their most defining feature. Avoid using flash, as it can startle nesting birds; instead, rely on the natural ambient light of the coastal environment. If you are setting up a remote camera, ensure it is anchored heavily, as cliffside winds can be powerful enough to knock over standard tripod setups.