Northern Gannet
NameNorthern Gannet
Common NameNorthern Gannet
Scientific NameMorus bassanus
FamilySulidae
Wingspan (cm)175
Length (cm)93.5
Weight (g)2950
Plumage DetailsAdults are predominantly brilliant white with black primary wing feathers. The head and nape have a distinctive pale yellowish wash, which can vary in intensity. They possess striking pale blue eye-rings and a strong, pointed bill.
Vocalization / CallAt breeding colonies, Northern Gannets are very vocal, emitting harsh, guttural 'arrah-arrah' or 'rab-rab-rab' calls, especially during territorial displays or interactions. They are typically silent when at sea.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal cliffs, open ocean, rocky islands
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds on islands and coasts of the North Atlantic, including eastern Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, the UK, Ireland, and France. Winters further south in the Atlantic Ocean.
Identifying Featureslarge size, brilliant white plumage with black wingtips, pale yellow head, pale blue eye-ring, pointed bill, plunge-diving hunting technique, colonial nesting
Description
The Northern Gannet is a large, striking seabird characterized by its brilliant white plumage, pale yellow head, and black wingtips. These powerful birds are renowned for their spectacular plunge-diving technique, often seen in large, noisy breeding colonies on coastal cliffs and islands.
