Black guillemot
Cepphus grylle
The black guillemot or tystie (Cepphus grylle) is a medium-sized seabird of the Alcidae family, native throughout northern Atlantic coasts and eastern North American coasts.
About the Black guillemot
The black guillemot or tystie (Cepphus grylle) is a medium-sized seabird of the Alcidae family, native throughout northern Atlantic coasts and eastern North American coasts. It is resident in much of its range, but large populations from the high arctic migrate southwards in winter. The bird can be seen in and around its breeding habitat of rocky shores, cliffs and islands in single or smalls groups of pairs. They feed mainly by diving towards the sea floor feeding on fish, crustaceans or other benthic invertebrates. They are listed on the IUCN red list as a species of least concern. Both sexes have very similar appearances with black plumage and a large white patch on the upper side of their wings in summer. The bill is also black, being rather long and slender, while the feet are coral-r
Fun Facts About Black guillemot
- The bird can be seen in and around its breeding habitat of rocky shores, cliffs and islands in single or smalls groups of pairs.
- Breeding pairs will typically lay 2-egg clutches and raise 2 chicks to fledging.
- The birds breed in solitary pairs or small groups during their breeding season starting in late February and early May.
- Pairs nest above the high tide mark, usually in cliff crevices or gaps in boulders.
- Once hatched, chicks are covered with black down and receive care from the parents until they fledge aged 30 – 40 days, unaccompanied by their parents.
Conservation Status
The Black guillemot is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. This species is currently stable and not at significant risk of population decline.
Taxonomy & Classification
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Alcidae |
| Genus | Cepphus |
| Species | Cepphus grylle |
Range & Habitat
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