Pigeon guillemots dive in shallow water for sculpins, sand lance, and smelt. They also feed in kelp beds and in waters near spits and jetties. Bluff Nester Pigeon guillemots nest in rocky crevices or sandy bluffs in late spring and summer. Nest sites occur on Smith, Sentinel, Flower, and Protection Islands. Nests can also be found in bluffs on the east side of Vashon, Fox, and Anderson Islands.
Guillemots often seek the cover of overhanging soil and plants on high bluffs for nesting.
Pigeon guillemots dig holes in cliffs for nest sites. They use their narrow beaks to pry out stones, and sharp toe nails to scrape. Cliff nests are placed in crevices or hollows where one or two greenish, dark spotted eggs are laid. In the winter, pigeon guillemots display a white head and mottled underparts. Narrow, dark bill.