Kríum

Kríum is a term that refers to the young of the black guillemot, a species of seabird also known as the tystie. Black guillemots are found in Arctic and sub-Arctic waters. They are distinctive for their black plumage in breeding season, contrasted with white wing patches and red feet and mouth. During the non-breeding season, they molt to a more mottled black and white appearance.

The breeding grounds of black guillemots are typically rocky coasts, islands, and cliffs. They nest in crevices, under boulders, or in burrows. The female typically lays two eggs, which are incubated by both parents. The chicks, known as kríum, are altricial, meaning they are born helpless and require significant parental care.

Once hatched, the kríum are fed by both parents, who bring them small fish and invertebrates. The parents will dive for prey and bring it back to the nest. The kríum grow rapidly and are usually ready to leave the nest after about 30-40 days. At this stage, they are capable of swimming and diving, though they remain dependent on their parents for a period after fledging. The term kríum is a specific ethological term used to describe this developmental stage of the black guillemot.