Assessing potential interactions between tidal energy developments and black guillemots Cepphus grylle in the Pentland Firth

Black Guillemots Cepphus grylle were recorded diving in the Pentland Firth to an average depth of 32 metres and an overall maximal depth of 43 metres. The majority (88%) of dives were benthic with a median dive duration of 95 seconds, and a maximal dive duration of 131 seconds. The results provide empirical evidence that Black Guillemots use depths within the water column at which tidal turbines are likely to operate. Although limited, our data suggest the potential for interactions between Black Guillemots and marine renewable energy devices.