Common Guillemot
Image: breckencreatures (cc-by-nc)
NameCommon Guillemot
Common NameCommon Guillemot
Scientific NameUria aalge
FamilyAlcidae
Wingspan (cm)67
Length (cm)42
Weight (g)1000
Plumage DetailsIn breeding plumage, the head, neck, and upperparts are dark brown to black, with pure white underparts. A thin dark line extends from the eye. Non-breeding birds have white cheeks and throat, with a dark line extending behind the eye.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations are typically guttural grunts, growls, and rumbles, often described as 'arrr' or 'karrr', especially heard at noisy breeding colonies.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatsmarine, coastal cliffs, rocky islands
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds on coastal cliffs and islands across the North Atlantic and North Pacific oceans, including Europe, North America, and Asia. Spends winters at sea, often dispersing from breeding grounds.
Identifying Featuresdark brown/black upperparts, white underparts, slender, pointed bill, upright posture on land, diving behavior, dark line behind eye (non-breeding)
Description
The Common Guillemot is a medium-sized seabird with a sleek, dark brown to black upper body and contrasting white underparts. Highly adapted for marine life, it is an expert diver, using its wings to propel itself underwater in pursuit of fish.
