Guillemots are among the most abundant seabirds in UK waters, nesting in packed cliff ledge colonies, and face welfare threats from avian influenza, oil pollution, and prey availability changes.
Guillemot welfare at densely packed colonies is challenged by disease spread, competition for space, and the vulnerability of chicks making the leap to sea. Oil spills cause prolonged suffering through hypothermia and ingestion of oil during preening. Prey availability changes driven by climate affect colony productivity and chick survival.