Common Guillemot
Uria aalge
The Common Guillemot is a familiar sight on British coastal cliffs and islands, particularly during the breeding season from April to August, with large colonies found in the north and west of the country. It can be seen throughout the year, although numbers may be lower outside of the breeding season.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Common Guillemot in the field.
The Common Guillemot can be identified by its black and white plumage, distinctive black stripe extending from the eye to the back of the head, and its upright posture when standing.
The Common Guillemot is slightly larger than a Blackbird, with a more compact body.
The male Common Guillemot has a black back and white belly, with a sharp distinction between the two colours, and a black head with a white patch above the eye, with little seasonal variation.
The female Common Guillemot is similar to the male, with no notable differences in plumage.
The Common Guillemot's call is a low, grunting "urr" or "ank" sound, often heard at breeding colonies.
Common Guillemots are skilled divers, feeding on fish and crustaceans in the sea, and are often seen flying low over the water with rapid wingbeats, or standing upright on cliff ledges.
The Common Guillemot can be confused with the similar-looking Razorbill, but can be distinguished by its thinner bill and lack of a white stripe on the beak, as well as its more upright posture when standing.
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