Gannet

Description:

The Gannet is a stunning seabird belonging to the Sulidae family that is commonly found in the coastal regions of Ireland. The bird is a beautiful, large and white seabird with black feathered wings. It has a long and sharp beak which is used for catching fish, its primary source of food.

What they eat:

The Gannet is a skilled fisherman, and it feeds mainly on fish species like herring and mackerel. It feeds by plunge-diving from the air and plunges deep into the sea in pursuit of its prey.

Habitat:

They nest on coastal cliffs, islands, and offshore rocks. They prefer to breed in colonies where they can be found in numbers.

Size and wingspan:

The Gannet is a large bird, ranging from 87 to 100 cm in length, with an average wingspan of around 170 to 180 cm. They have a distinct streamlined body shape that helps them soar through the air with minimal effort.

Male female difference:

The sex of Gannets can be determined by analyzing the size and shape of their heads. Males have larger head structures and beaks compared to females.

Where to find:

The Gannet is mostly found along the east and south coasts of Ireland. There are major colonies of Gannets nesting in Skellig Michael in Kerry, Little Skellig and the Saltee Islands in Wexford.

What months can be found in Ireland:

Gannets can be found in Ireland throughout the year. However, the breeding season starts in May and lasts until September. During the breeding season, you can spot large colonies of these beautiful birds nesting in specific locations.

Interesting note:

The Gannet is a symbol of loyalty and devotion, and they mate for life. Once they pair up, they will remain together for the rest of their lives. The Gannet is also known for its incredible diving ability. They have been known to dive up to depths of 20 meters to catch fish. It is a beautiful sight to see a Gannet plunge into the water surface with grace and precision to catch fish.