Species profile
About this species
The Northern Gannet is the largest seabird in the North Atlantic, with a wingspan reaching up to 180cm. It is recognised by its brilliant white plumage, striking black wingtips, & golden-yellow head. Gannets are renowned for their dramatic plunge-diving behaviour, dropping from heights of up to 30 metres to catch fish at speed.
Northern Gannets are found along the North Atlantic coastline, nesting in large, noisy colonies on rocky sea cliffs & offshore islands. Outside of the breeding season they range widely across open ocean, frequently seen diving in coastal & offshore waters.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Northern Gannet with us in Scotland.
These departures are part of our Europe programme.
In the field, Robin Lowry helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Late spring to early summer - particularly May to July - when colonies are active with courtship, nesting, & chick-rearing. Early morning light provides warm, directional illumination ideal for photographing birds at clifftop colonies.
Position yourself at a clifftop colony such as Bass Rock or Bempton Cliffs for close-up shots of nesting & displaying birds. Use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/2000s to freeze the action of plunge-diving birds over the sea. A telephoto lens of 400-600mm will allow you to capture intimate portraits without disturbing the colony.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Northern Gannet
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.