The Black Guillemot (Cepphus grylle)
An Irish Seabird
The black guillemot, or Cepphus grylle, is a member of the auk family, which includes puffins and razorbills. Found right around the Irish coast, the black guillemot is distinguished by its black and white plumage and red feet and is known in Irish as Foracha dhubh.
Territorial Behaviour
As territorial seabirds, it’s often possible to view them being aggressive with other species or with other black guillemots. For instance, a bird might try to install itself in another black guillemot’s nest among stones on a wall. After much circling, the rightful owner will return to chase off the interloper, and an acrobatic moment ensues, including tail-feather biting and the reveal of the black guillemot’s coral-red gape.
Photography in Ireland
Join me here in Ireland to photograph black guillemots, seascapes, landscapes, or street scenes.
