GUILLEMOT Meaning and
Definition
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A guillemot is a type of seabird belonging to the family Alcidae and the genus Cepphus. These medium-sized birds are characterized by their streamlined bodies, long wings, and black plumage, with white markings on their wings and undersides. There are several species of guillemots, including the common guillemot (Cepphus grylle), the black guillemot (Cepphus grylle), and the pigeon guillemot (Cepphus columba).
Guillemots are well adapted for marine life, with their webbed feet facilitating efficient swimming and diving. They primarily inhabit rocky cliffs, sea stacks, and islands, often forming large colonies during the breeding season. Guillemots are known for their exceptional diving capabilities, reaching depths of up to 100 meters (328 feet) in search of fish, their main food source. They are excellent swimmers and can travel long distances in search of suitable foraging grounds.
During the breeding season, guillemots lay a single egg on narrow ledges or crevices on cliff faces. Both parents take turns incubating the egg and caring for the chick after hatching. The guillemot's distinctive call, a high-pitched wailing or cackling sound, is often heard in these breeding colonies.
These fascinating seabirds play a crucial role in coastal ecosystems, as their diet includes commercially important fish species, and their guano contributes to nutrient cycling on their rocky habitats. However, like many seabirds, guillemot populations are facing numerous threats, including habitat loss, pollution, climate change, and overfishing, which highlights the need for conservation efforts to protect these remarkable birds and the ecosystems they depend on.
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A thick clumsy sea-fowl, found in northern Europe, Asia, and America.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for GUILLEMOT
Etymology of GUILLEMOT
The word "guillemot" comes from the Old Norse name "gilimót", which is a combination of two elements: "gili" meaning 'gill' or 'cleft,' and "mót" meaning 'meeting' or 'assembly.' The name refers to the bird's distinctive shape, with its narrow head and bill resembling a cleft. Over time, the word "gilimót" morphed into "guillemot" in English, which is now the commonly used term for this seabird.
Similar spelling words for GUILLEMOT
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