Northern Gannet (Morus bassanus)
The Northern Gannet (Morus bassanus) is a striking seabird renowned for its impressive wingspan of up to 180 cm and its breathtaking diving abilities, reaching speeds of up to 100 km/h as it plunges into the ocean to catch fish. Found in large colonies along the northern Atlantic coast, this species captivates birdwatchers with its elegant flight and distinctive appearance, featuring a yellowish head and a blue ring around its eyes.
| 🇫🇷 | Fou de Bassan |
| 🇩🇪 | Basstölpel |
| 🇲🇽 | Alcatraz común, Alcatraz atlántico |
| Taxonomy | |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Sulidae |
How to Identify
From a distance, Northern Gannets may resemble ordinary gulls, characterized by their white plumage with black-tipped wings. However, their identity becomes unmistakable when they dive for fish. Upon closer inspection, their distinctive features become apparent: a beak and head shape uniquely adapted for piercing the water's surface upon impact, complemented by a yellowish head and a striking blue ring encircling the eye.
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Characteristics
| Length | 87-100cm |
| Weight | 2.3-3.6kg |
| Wingspan | 170-180cm |
| Clutch Size | 1 egg |
| Incubation | 42-46 days |
| Fledging | 90 days |
| Sexual Maturity | 3-5 years |
| Source | Wikipedia |
Where and When to Spot
Northern Gannets can be observed along the Atlantic coast, particularly in the Bay of Lawrence, Newfoundland. A prime location to witness their fishing prowess is Flatrock Cove, situated north of St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador.
Observation Records by Park and Season
| Location | Spring | Summer | Autumn | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saguenay St. Lawrence Marine Park | - | x | - | - |
"x" indicates the species was observed, while "-" indicates no observation. Lack of observation doesn't necessarily imply that the species is absent. Data is derived from our park visit journals.