Gannet

Morus bassanus

These are large to very large seabirds, with long, tapered bodies, long, angular, pointed wings, pointed tails and dagger-like, pointed bills.

They feed by diving into the sea for fish. Only one species is regularly seen in the UK but a few other kinds are found, mostly in tropical seas, around the world.

Most are largely white, with black on the wings, but one species is mostly dark brown. They breed in colonies on cliffs and islands, some tropical species nesting in trees.

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When to see

They can be seen from February to October when they spend their time close to shore for raising chicks and gather in colonies.

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Where to see

They can seen along the coasts nesting on cliffs in colonies. The East Coast and the Islands of Scotland are great viewing of Gannets.

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Did you know?

Gannets are our largest sea birds.

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Related species

Eider Duck Great Skua

Binoculars Icon Blue
When to see

They can be seen from February to October when they spend their time close to shore for raising chicks and gather in colonies.

Map Icon Blue
Where to see

They can seen along the coasts nesting on cliffs in colonies. The East Coast and the Islands of Scotland are great viewing of Gannets.

Book Icon Blue
Did you know?

Gannets are our largest sea birds.

Dolphin Icon Blue
Related species

Eider Duck Great Skua

Binoculars Icon Blue
When to see

They can be seen from February to October when they spend their time close to shore for raising chicks and gather in colonies.

Map Icon Blue
Where to see

They can seen along the coasts nesting on cliffs in colonies. The East Coast and the Islands of Scotland are great viewing of Gannets.

Book Icon Blue
Did you know?

Gannets are our largest sea birds.

Dolphin Icon Blue
Related species

Eider Duck Great Skua