Gannet  (Morus bassanus)

The gannet is a magnificent large seabird, with long narrow wings, a long neck, and instantly recognisable plumage. Adults are white with black tips to the wings and a yellowish head, which fades somewhat in winter (2). There is a ring of bluish skin around the eyes, which explains the alternative name of 'spectacled goose' (3). Males and females are similar in appearance, but females have green lines on the toes whereas in males these are more yellowish (4). Juveniles are greyish-brown in colour with white freckling (2), which increases with age until the full white plumage is reached (11). A variety of loud vocalisations are produced in breeding colonies (2).