Long-billed Murrelet vs Black Guillemot

In short

The Long-billed Murrelet and Black Guillemot can be distinguished by their bill and plumage. The Long-billed Murrelet has a notably longer bill, while the Black Guillemot features distinctive white wing-patches and scarlet legs and feet.

Identification tips

• Look for the long bill in Long-billed Murrelet.
• Check for white wing-patches and scarlet legs in Black Guillemot.

Plumage

The Black Guillemot has white wing-patches and scarlet legs and feet, which are distinctive. The Long-billed Murrelet lacks these features and has a longer bill.

Behaviour

Black Guillemots lay 2 eggs and prefer inshore waters, while Long-billed Murrelets' behavior is not specified.

Habitat

Black Guillemots are often found in inshore waters and near ice edges in the Arctic. Habitat preferences for Long-billed Murrelets are not specified.