Common Guillemot
Image: breckencreatures (cc-by-nc)
NameCommon Guillemot
Common NameCommon Guillemot
Scientific NameUria aalge
FamilyAlcidae
Wingspan (cm)67
Length (cm)42
Weight (g)1025
Plumage DetailsAdults have dark brown to black upperparts, head, and neck, contrasting sharply with pure white underparts. Some individuals exhibit a 'bridled' morph with a white eye-ring and a thin white line extending behind the eye.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent at sea, but highly vocal at breeding colonies, producing a variety of growling 'arrr' calls, grunts, and purrs.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatsmarine, coastal cliffs
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds on coasts of the North Atlantic and North Pacific, including North America, Europe, and Asia. Spends winters in offshore waters within its breeding range or further south.
Identifying FeaturesDark brown/black upperparts and white underparts, Slender, pointed bill, Upright posture when on land, Excellent diving capabilities, Occasional white eye-ring and stripe (bridled morph)
Description
The Common Guillemot is a sleek, medium-sized seabird known for its exceptional diving abilities. It spends most of its life at sea, coming ashore only to breed in dense colonies on rocky cliffs.
