Where does the Northern Gannet live?
Morus bassanus
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Open the appThe Northern Gannet lives in specific habitats and regions. Knowing where, and when, to look improves your chances of a successful sighting.
Biomes
Marine, Coastal
Geographic range
North Atlantic Ocean. Breeding colonies are found on islands and coastal cliffs of Canada (Newfoundland, Quebec), Greenland, Iceland, Norway, the British Isles (Scotland, Ireland, England, Wales), and France. Non-breeding range extends south to the Gulf of Mexico, West Africa, and the Mediterranean Sea.
Preferred environments
Open ocean, coastal waters, and offshore islands or steep cliffs for breeding. They require clear, relatively shallow waters for foraging, often near continental shelves or areas with upwellings that concentrate fish.
Elevation range
Sea level to several hundred meters above sea level for nesting cliffs.
Where to look
Breeding Colonies
Visit major gannetries on coastal cliffs and islands in the North Atlantic, such as Bass Rock (Scotland), Bempton Cliffs (England), Cape St. Mary's (Newfoundland, Canada), or Bonaventure Island (Quebec, Canada). These offer spectacular views of thousands of birds.
Coastal Headlands and Promontories
During migration or foraging, they can be seen from land at prominent coastal points, especially during strong winds or after storms.
Pelagic Trips
Offshore boat trips are excellent for observing gannets at sea, often following fishing vessels or feeding in open water.
Field tips
- Look for Plunge-Diving. Scan the horizon for birds circling high above the water, then watch for their dramatic, vertical dives. This is the most iconic behavior.
- Observe Flight Patterns. Note their powerful, direct flight and long glides. They often fly in lines or V-formations when traveling to and from feeding grounds.
- Visit Colonies in Breeding Season. For the best views and to hear their vocalizations, visit a gannetry during the spring and summer. Be prepared for strong smells and loud noise.
- Distinguish Juveniles. Remember that young birds are dark and mottled, not pure white. Don't mistake them for other dark seabirds.
Migration
Migratory. Northern populations (e.g., Canada, Iceland, Norway) undertake long-distance migrations south to warmer waters off the eastern US, Gulf of Mexico, and West Africa. Southern populations (e.g., British Isles, France) may be partially migratory or dispersive, with many birds moving south but some remaining closer to breeding grounds, especially in milder winters. Juveniles typically migrate further south than adults.
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