The black guillemot or tystie 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.
Region
North Atlantic and Arctic coasts
Typical Environment
Occurs around rocky coasts and islands of the North Atlantic, including Iceland, Greenland, Svalbard, northern Scandinavia and Russia, the British Isles (especially the north and west), the Faroes, and parts of the Baltic. In North America it ranges from Maine north through Atlantic Canada, Newfoundland and Labrador, Hudson Bay, and Arctic Canada. Breeds on cliffs, boulder beaches, and offshore islets, using crevices and cavities for nests. Winters mainly nearshore in ice-free waters, seldom far from land.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 300 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Black guillemots are striking in breeding plumage, appearing jet black with a bold white wing patch and vivid red feet and mouth lining. In winter they turn mottled gray and white but keep the white wing patch. They nest in rock crevices, under boulders, or among pier structures, often returning to the same sites for years. Agile pursuit-divers, they carry small fish crosswise in the bill when provisioning chicks.
Showing red gape
Winter plumage off the coast of Maine
Black guillemots in summer plumage. July 2018, Yesnaby, Orkney
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats low over the water; strong, direct flier
Social Behavior
Typically nests in loose colonies or dispersed pairs, defending a small territory around the nest crevice. Pairs are generally monogamous, both sexes incubate 1–2 eggs and feed the chicks. Outside breeding, birds may gather loosely at productive feeding areas and harbors.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Gives high, whistling, piping calls, especially at breeding sites. Vocalizations include sharp peeps and trills used in pair bonding and territorial displays.
