Black Guillemot

Cepphus grylie

It's striking black and white plumage and bright red feet make it easy to identify in summer.

Unlike most other European auks the black guillemot is typically found in ones and twos, scattered around rocky islets. It is typical of the larger sea lochs of western Scotland, and the northern and western isles, but is also found in Ireland, the Isle of Man and in a handful of spots in England and Wales.

How to be responsible when watching wildlife >

Discover more about the Black Guillemot

Binoculars Icon Blue
When to see

The black guillemot's striking black and white plumage and bright red feet make it easy to identify in summer.

Map Icon Blue
Where to see

Highest numbers of black guillemot can be found on the Shetland and Orkney islands, and down the west coast of Scotland.

Book Icon Blue
Did you know?
Dolphin Icon Blue
Related species

Guillemot Razorbill

Binoculars Icon Blue
When to see

The black guillemot's striking black and white plumage and bright red feet make it easy to identify in summer.

Map Icon Blue
Where to see

Highest numbers of black guillemot can be found on the Shetland and Orkney islands, and down the west coast of Scotland.

Book Icon Blue
Did you know?
Dolphin Icon Blue
Related species

Guillemot Razorbill

Binoculars Icon Blue
When to see

The black guillemot's striking black and white plumage and bright red feet make it easy to identify in summer.

Map Icon Blue
Where to see

Highest numbers of black guillemot can be found on the Shetland and Orkney islands, and down the west coast of Scotland.

Book Icon Blue
Did you know?
Dolphin Icon Blue
Related species

Guillemot Razorbill