Morus serrator
The Australasian Gannet, Morus serrator, is a majestic large seabird known for its spectacular plunge-diving technique. Adults sport a striking white plumage with long, slender black-tipped wings, creating a dramatic contrast in flight, and a distinctive golden-buff wash on the head and nape. They measure approximately 89-97 cm (35-38 in) in length with an impressive wingspan of 170-185 cm (67-73 in) and weigh between 2.3-2.8 kg (5.1-6.2 lb). Key identification marks include the black primary...
Exclusively marine, inhabiting coastal waters, offshore islands, and the open ocean (pelagic zones) primarily in temperate regions of Australia and New Zealand. They breed in large, dense colonies on remote islands and cliffs.
Primarily piscivorous, feeding on schooling pelagic fish such as pilchards, anchovies, mackerel, and occasionally squid. They hunt almost exclusively by spectacular plunge-diving from considerable heights.
Australasian Gannets are highly social, forming dense, noisy breeding colonies on offshore islands and coastal cliffs. They are diurnal, spending daylight hours foraging at sea and returning to colonies or offshore roosts at night. Their most iconic behavior is their plunge-diving, where they fol...
The Australasian Gannet is endemic to the coastal and offshore waters of Australia and New Zealand. Its primary breeding strongholds are found across New Zealand, particularly on the North Island and various smaller offshore islands such as Three Kings Islands and the Chathams. In Australia, sign...
Least Concern
- Australasian Gannets can hit the water at speeds approaching 100 km/h (60 mph) during their dramatic plunge-dives. - To withstand the impact of high-speed diving, they have specialized air sacs in their face and chest that act like airbags. - Unlike most birds, they lack external nostrils; inst...