Northern Gannet

Morus bassanus

The Northern Gannet is a large seabird with a wingspan of up to 6 feet. It has a white body with black wingtips and a yellowish head. These birds are known for their spectacular plunge-diving to catch fish, reaching speeds of up to 60 miles per hour as they dive into the ocean from heights of over 100 feet. They breed in large colonies on cliffs and islands, and are highly social birds. Northern Gannets are primarily found in the North Atlantic, where they forage for fish in the open ocean. They are powerful and graceful flyers, using their keen eyesight to spot fish from great heights before diving to catch their prey.

Habitat: Open ocean