Guillemots

Guillemots are seabirds that belong to the auk family, which also includes other birds such as puffins and razorbills.

Guillemot chicks plunge into the sea as a way to leave their nesting site and start their life in the water. When the chicks reach around 2-3 weeks old they are unable to fly and must jump off the cliff and into the sea, where they are cared for by their fathers. The fathers take over the care of the chicks once they are in the water, feeding and protecting them until they are old enough to fend for themselves. This behaviour is an important adaptation for survival in the harsh and unpredictable coastal environment where guillemots live.

Guillemots are not considered to be aggressive birds, tending to be relatively peaceful and non-confrontational towards other birds and animals.

Guillemots are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, which prohibits the intentional or reckless disturbance of these birds during the breeding season.

Guillemots in the UK typically spend their winters around the British coast, but further offshore than they are found during the breeding season. Leaving their breeding sites in late summer or early autumn, usually around July or August, they will then return to their breeding colonies in the spring, around March or April.

Guillemots hunt by diving underwater to catch fish and other prey, being strong swimmers they propel through the water in search of food and are able to hold their breath for several minutes at a time. Their flexible skeletons and valves in their ears to help them equalize, allow them to dive to depths of up to 180 metres deep!