Northern Gannet
Morus bassanus
Adult northern gannets are large seabirds of cold North Atlantic waters, nesting in dense colonies on cliffs and offshore islands. They hunt fish such as mackerel, herring, and sand eels by folding their wings and plunging into the sea from high above. Their long wings, streamlined body, and air sacs cushion the impact of high-speed dives. A notable fact is that adults can strike the water at speeds often estimated near 100 km/h during feeding dives.
- Type
- Wing / Water
- Conservation status
- LC
Growth chain
- Northern Gannet Chick
- ?
- Northern Gannet