MASTERS OF THE PLUNGE
Since the beginning of the month, we’ve enjoyed not only incredible whale sightings, but also spectacular displays from the beautiful northern gannets above our heads and around the boats as well as among the feeding whales.
These incredible animals truly are one of the most spectacular seabirds in the North Atlantic. Wonder why?
Read on and find out!
Northern gannets are the largest seabirds in the North Atlantic, with wingspans reaching up to two meters. Adults are easily recognized by their brilliant white feathers, pointed wings with black tips, and pale golden crown. Their long, dagger-like bill and blue-rimmed eyes give them a striking, almost fierce expression. Juveniles, however, start out mottled brown and take four to five years to achieve their full adult plumage.
Have a close look when out at sea with us: this time of the year is a great moment to spot both adults and juvelines hunting in Skjálfandi Bay!
That said, their hunting skills alone are something only few seabirds can match: Spotting schools of fish from above, they fold their wings back and dive like arrows into the ocean from heights of up to 40 metres and at speeds of 60 mph / 97 kmh. To withstand the impact, gannets have evolved special adaptations: air sacs in their face and chest act like cushions, and their nostrils are internal, preventing water from rushing in. Their preferred prey includes mackerel, herring, and sand eels, which they often catch underwater after their initial plunge.
Over summer, gannets breed in large, noisy colonies on remote cliffs and islands - the clostest colonies to Húsavík can be found towards the Northeast, in areas such as Melrakkaslétta and Langanes.
Nesting gannets pack tightly together. Pairs are monogamous and often reunite each year, greeting each other with a ritual of bill fencing and bowing. A single egg is laid and incubated by both parents, and the chick grows rapidly thanks to a steady diet of regurgitated fish.
While they spend their summers breeding in the North Atlantic, they migrate south in winter. Many travel as far as the Mediterranean or the west coast of Africa, taking advantage of rich fishing grounds before returning north the following spring.
Text & Photos: Sarah (captain/head guide)
