These seabirds are fascinating creatures, and the Orkney and Shetland Islands provide an ideal habitat for them due to their rugged coastlines and abundant marine life.
Guillemot Species Found on the Islands
There are two main species of guillemots found around the Islands:
- Common Guillemot (Uria aalge): The most widespread guillemot species, easily recognized by its black-and-white plumage and sleek body. They spend most of their time at sea but come ashore to breed.
- Brünnich’s Guillemot (Uria lomvia): Although rarer, Brünnich’s Guillemots can occasionally be seen. They are similar in appearance to the Common Guillemot but are typically found in more northerly regions.
Breeding Habits
Guillemots come to the islands cliffs during spring and summer to breed. They nest on narrow ledges, forming tightly packed colonies that can number in the thousands. One of the most significant breeding colonies on Orkney is found at the sea cliffs of Marwick Head and Noup Cliffs on Westray.
- Egg-laying: Guillemots lay a single pear-shaped egg, which is uniquely coloured and patterned to help it blend into the rocks and prevent it from rolling off the cliff ledges.
- Parenting: Both parents take turns incubating the egg and, once hatched, the chick is cared for by both parents. At about three weeks old, the chick makes its first plunge into the sea, often jumping off the cliffs with encouragement from the adult guillemots.
Feeding and Behavior
Guillemots are excellent divers, using their wings to “fly” underwater in search of fish. They mainly feed on small fish such as sandeels, herring, and sprats, which are abundant in scottish waters. They can dive to impressive depths of up to 180 meters (590 feet) to catch their prey.
- Flight: While they are strong swimmers, guillemots are less graceful in the air. Their short wings require fast flapping, giving them a somewhat frantic flight pattern as they skim just above the water’s surface.
Watching Guillemots
The best time to see guillemots is between May and August, during their breeding season. Some top spots for birdwatching include:
- Marwick Head RSPB Reserve: This is a prime location for seeing guillemot colonies in action, along with other seabirds like puffins, razorbills, and fulmars. The towering cliffs provide spectacular views of both the birds and the surrounding seascape.
- Noup Cliffs, Westray: These cliffs are home to one of the largest seabird colonies in Orkney, including guillemots, making them a perfect spot for observing the dramatic life of these birds up close.
- Hoy and St. John’s Head: The cliffs of Hoy, especially around the famous Old Man of Hoy sea stack, also provide great opportunities for spotting guillemots in their natural habitat.
Conservation and Challenges
Guillemots face several challenges, particularly due to climate change and human activity. The availability of food sources, such as sand eels, can fluctuate, impacting the birds’ ability to feed themselves and their chicks. Conservation efforts are in place to monitor seabird populations and maintain the natural habitats of these coastal regions.
Observing guillemots in their natural environment offers an unforgettable experience for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.
