Saw this strange colour on a Guillemot on Filey cliffs this week.
Light brown or sandy head and neck. Is this unusual as never seen before?
There are two types of nesting Guillemots's in the UK. There is the well known named Guillemot that everyone knows including non-birdwatchers. Then there is the Black Guillemot that breeds/nests on he West Coast of Scotland. Also nests/ reeds at St Bees Head on the West Cumbrian coastline I. The photo that you’ve provided is not very clear. So not 100% certain. One questio! Where was the photo taken? That could well help.
Regards,
Ian.
Certainly not a Black Guillemot as seems to have been suggested, The brown mentioned in the text is an extremely dark brown, almost black to the eye at a distance. This bird seems to have a genetic plumage problem but that is only my opinion. I did think at first it had dived into something but discounted that quickly. We are in Filey areas next sweek so I will look out for this bird on the cliff. It will be interesting to see what others think.
Pete
Birding is for everyone no matter how good or bad we are at it,enjoy it while you can
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