Pigeon Guillemot at Lonsdale Quay, BC

These Pigeon Guillemots were photographed swimming near shore and commonly nest around Lonsdale Quay. They nest under the concrete pier, which resembles the rocky islands they typically breed on.  They have very basic nests of stones, bones, and seashells with a central depression. Guillemots use crevices, cavities, and sheltered spaces for nesting in natural and urban settings. Their bright red feet and mouth lining are normal year-round features but used in courtship. The red coloration comes from pigments in their diet and helps distinguish them from similar seabirds. They dive powerfully with their red feet, hunting fish close to shore during breeding season. See them between January and June for great close ups.