Guernsey | 1971 | 1 Penny | Northern Gannet

 
Northern Gannet

    



The Northern Gannet (Morus bassanus) is the largest member of the gannet family, Sulidae, and is found nesting in large colonies (up to 60,000 pairs) on both sides of the North Atlantic. Known for its spectacular high-speed dives, it is a seasonal migrant. Historically called "solan" or "solan goose," the Northern Gannet has a length of 81–110 cm (32–43 in), weighs 2.2–3.6 kg (4.9–7.9 lb), and has a wingspan of 165–180 cm (65–71 in). Immature birds can weigh over 4 kg (8.8 lb) before fledging.

Adults have white plumage with dark wing tips, varying in color from brown to black. During breeding, their head and neck may be yellowish. Their waterproof feathers are coated with a secretion from a sebaceous gland, allowing them to spend long periods in water. The Northern Gannet’s characteristic light blue eyes are framed by black skin.

Fledglings are brown with white wing tips, and their plumage changes with age, becoming more white as they mature. By their fifth year, they reach adult plumage. Chicks are initially featherless, dark blue or black, then covered with white down by the second week and dark brown feathers by week five.

 










                             

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