Northern Gannet
Image: zroper (cc-by-nc)
NameNorthern Gannet
Common NameNorthern Gannet
Scientific NameMorus bassanus
FamilySulidae
Wingspan (cm)170
Length (cm)95
Weight (g)3000
Plumage DetailsAdults have brilliant white bodies, black primary wing feathers, and a distinctive pale yellow wash on the head and nape. Their eyes are encircled by pale blue skin. Juveniles are dark brown or grey, heavily mottled with white spots, and gradually lighten over a period of 3-5 years until they achieve full adult plumage.
Vocalization / CallNorthern Gannets produce a variety of harsh, guttural calls, particularly when at their breeding colonies. Common calls include a loud 'arrah-arrah' or 'rab-rab-rab', used for communication between mates and territorial defense.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatsmarine, coastal, open ocean, cliffs
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds on both sides of the North Atlantic Ocean, including coasts and islands of Europe (e.g., UK, Ireland, Iceland, Norway, France) and North America (e.g., Canada, Greenland). They disperse widely over the Atlantic during the non-breeding season.
Identifying Featureslarge size, long, pointed bill, plunge-diving behavior, white plumage with black wingtips (adults), pale yellow head (adults), dark mottled plumage (juveniles), colonial nesting on cliffs
Description
The Northern Gannet is a large, striking seabird renowned for its spectacular plunge-diving technique to catch fish. Adults are predominantly white with black wingtips and a pale yellow head, while juveniles are dark and mottled, gradually acquiring adult plumage over several years. They are highly social, forming dense breeding colonies on cliffs.
