Haida Gwaii Recovers First Marbled Murrelet Nest in 30 Years

A small expedition team set out from the southern coast of Haida Gwaii on a late‑summer day, crossing the Dixon Entrance in an open skiff before trekking into the island’s interior. The group, composed of four hikers and a marine biologist, navigated the turbulent waters head‑on, battling swells and salt spray as they crossed the narrow channel that separates the archipelago from mainland British Columbia.

After the sea crossing, the team entered the dense salal understory and wove between towering western red cedars that line the northern part of the island. The forest, shrouded in twilight, presented a stark contrast to the open sea they had just left. The journey, which took several days, highlighted the logistical challenges of moving through remote wilderness while maintaining communication and safety protocols in an area with limited infrastructure.

The expedition underscores the rugged nature of Haida Gwaii’s landscape and the resilience required to traverse it. While the team successfully reached their destination, the experience serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between exploration and environmental stewardship in this pristine region.