Cepphus columba
The Pigeon Guillemot (Cepphus columba) is a striking member of the Alcid family, often captivating observers with its bold black plumage accented by a prominent white wing patch and brilliant vermilion feet and mouth lining. Adults measure 30-38 cm (12-15 in) in length with a wingspan of 52-58 cm (20-23 in) and weigh between 450-550 g (16-19 oz). Its distinctive bright red feet are a key field mark, especially in flight or underwater, setting it apart from its close relatives, the Black and S...
Primarily found along rocky coasts, sea cliffs, and offshore islands, Pigeon Guillemots frequent inshore marine waters and protected bays. They prefer areas with suitable nesting crevices and ample forage, typically at sea level or just above the high tide line.
Their diet consists mainly of small, benthic or schooling fish such as blennies, sculpins, and sandlance, supplemented by marine invertebrates like crabs, shrimp, and squid. They forage primarily by pursuit diving, propelled by their wings.
Pigeon Guillemots are diurnal, spending their days actively foraging in coastal waters, returning to cliff-side roosts or resting on the water surface at night. They are expert pursuit divers, using their wings to "fly" underwater in pursuit of small fish and marine invertebrates, often diving to...
The Pigeon Guillemot's breeding range spans the rocky coastlines of the North Pacific. In North America, this extends from the western Aleutian Islands of Alaska, eastward through the Gulf of Alaska, along the coasts of British Columbia, Washington, and Oregon, reaching its southern limit at the ...
Least Concern
- The brilliant red color of their feet and mouth lining intensifies during the breeding season, serving as a display of health and vigor. - Pigeon Guillemots can hold multiple small fish crosswise in their bill, resembling a tiny mustache of fish, to transport back to their hungry chicks. - They...