Northern Gannet
The Northern Gannet (Morus bassanus) is a seabird and it is the largest member of the gannet family, Sulidae. Adults are 81–110 cm long, weigh 2.2–3.6 kg, and have a 165–180 cm wingspan. Before fledging, the immature birds (at about 10 weeks of age) can weigh more than 4 kg. Each wing measures between 47 and 53 cm when outstretched and the beak measures between 9 and 11 cm (measured from the head). The two sexes are a similar size.
The plumage of the adults is white with dark wing tips, with colours that range from brown to black. The colour of the head, cheeks and side of the neck depends on the season and the individual, during breeding, the head and neck are brushed in a delicate yellow. Although this colouring may not be evident in some individuals. The feathers are waterproof, which allows the birds to spend long periods in water. A water impermeable secretion produced by a sebaceous gland covers the feathers and the birds spread it across their body using their beak or their head. The eye is light blue, and it is surrounded by bare, black skin, which gives the birds their characteristic facial expression.
Read MoreThe plumage of the adults is white with dark wing tips, with colours that range from brown to black. The colour of the head, cheeks and side of the neck depends on the season and the individual, during breeding, the head and neck are brushed in a delicate yellow. Although this colouring may not be evident in some individuals. The feathers are waterproof, which allows the birds to spend long periods in water. A water impermeable secretion produced by a sebaceous gland covers the feathers and the birds spread it across their body using their beak or their head. The eye is light blue, and it is surrounded by bare, black skin, which gives the birds their characteristic facial expression.
