Atlantic Puffin vs Common Guillemot

In short

The Atlantic Puffin and Common Guillemot are both seabirds of the Alcidae family, but they can be distinguished by their structure and plumage. The Puffin is known for its large, colorful bill and bright-orange legs, while the Guillemot has a sleek, dark body with a more slender, pointed bill. Both species are found in similar northern coastal habitats but differ in behavior and social interactions.

Identification tips

1. Look for the large, colorful bill and bright-orange legs of the Puffin. 2. Note the sleek, dark body and slender, pointed bill of the Guillemot. 3. Observe behavior: Puffins are more social and often seen in groups, while Guillemots may be more solitary. 4. Check nesting sites: Puffins use burrows, Guillemots prefer open ledges.

Size

The Atlantic Puffin is stockier and shorter than the Common Guillemot, which is more elongated and slender.

Plumage

The Puffin has a striking contrast with its black upperparts and white underparts, accentuated by its colorful bill and orange legs. The Guillemot is more uniformly dark above with white underparts, lacking the Puffin's bright bill and leg coloration.

Behaviour

Puffins are somewhat clumsy on land but agile divers, often seen in large, social groups during breeding. Guillemots are also excellent divers but tend to be more streamlined and efficient in flight.

Habitat

Both species breed on rocky cliffs and islands in the North Atlantic. Puffins often use burrows or crevices for nesting, while Guillemots nest on open ledges.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a primary distinguishing feature in the field; both species have similar harsh calls.