Black Guillemot vs Little Auk

In short

The Black Guillemot and Little Auk are both small seabirds, but they can be distinguished by their plumage and habitat preferences. Black Guillemots have distinctive white wing patches and scarlet legs, while Little Auks are more uniformly dark with a small white patch on the wings. Both species are found in northern waters, but Black Guillemots prefer inshore areas, whereas Little Auks are more pelagic.

Identification tips

1. Look for the white wing patches and scarlet legs of the Black Guillemot. 2. Note the uniform dark plumage of the Little Auk with a small white wing patch. 3. Consider habitat: Black Guillemots are nearshore, Little Auks are often offshore. 4. Size can be a clue: Black Guillemots are slightly larger.

Size

Black Guillemots are slightly larger than Little Auks.

Plumage

Black Guillemots have black plumage with prominent white wing patches and scarlet legs, which are visible in flight. Little Auks are mostly dark with a small white patch on the wings and lack the bright leg coloration.

Behaviour

Black Guillemots are often seen close to shore, diving for fish and invertebrates. Little Auks are more pelagic, often seen in large flocks at sea.

Habitat

Black Guillemots prefer inshore waters and are often found near rocky coastlines. Little Auks are more commonly found in open ocean environments, especially during non-breeding seasons.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a primary distinguishing feature between these species in the field.