Northern Gannet

The Northern Gannet (*Morus bassanus*), known in French as the fou de Bassan, is a large seabird of the North Atlantic and the largest seabird in Europe.

The Northern Gannet (*Morus bassanus*), known in French as the fou de Bassan, is a large seabird of the North Atlantic and the largest seabird in Europe. It is a powerful diver that feeds mainly on fish and cephalopods. The species breeds in colonies on cliffs and offshore islands, including several sites in eastern Canada.

Description

The Northern Gannet is a large, white seabird with black wing tips and a long, pointed bill. Adults are mostly white, and the species is noted for its streamlined shape and powerful flight.

Distribution and habitat

This species is found across the North Atlantic and nests in colonies on cliffs, steep slopes, and plateaus. Its breeding colonies occur in eastern Canada, Greenland, Iceland, and northern Europe.

Feeding and behaviour

Northern Gannets are plunge-divers that feed mainly on schooling fish and also take cephalopods. Their feeding behaviour is highly visible and has made the species well known to observers and fishers.

Conservation

The species is listed as Least Concern globally, and European assessments describe its conservation status as favourable. In Canada, the species has been identified as a conservation and stewardship priority in some regional strategies.