Gannet Vs Cormorant: Key Differences Explained
The British coastline hosts two remarkable seabirds that often capture the attention of wildlife enthusiasts: the Gannet (Morus bassanus) and the Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo). While both are skilled diving birds that hunt fish beneath the waves, they each possess unique characteristics that set them apart.
Did you know that Gannets can plunge into the ocean from heights of 30 metres, reaching speeds of up to 60 mph? Or that Cormorants have special feathers that aren’t fully waterproof, allowing them to dive deeper more efficiently?
These fascinating adaptations showcase the remarkable evolution of these seabirds to their marine environment. Let’s learn more about these two birds in this article!
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Gannets are larger than Cormorants, with a wingspan of 165-180 cm compared to the Cormorant’s 130-160 cm
- Gannets are predominantly white with black wingtips, while Cormorants are almost entirely black
- Gannets dive from great heights (up to 30m), while Cormorants pursue fish underwater
- Gannets have specialised air sacs under their skin for impact protection, while Cormorants have less waterproof feathers for efficient diving
- Cormorants can be found both inland and coastal, while Gannets are strictly marine birds
- Gannets typically lay 1 egg, while Cormorants lay 3-4 eggs per clutch
- Both species are present in the UK year-round but have different migration patterns
What Is The Difference Between A Gannet And A Cormorant?
While both birds are expert fishers, Gannets and Cormorants have evolved different hunting strategies and physical adaptations that make them distinct from each other. Let’s explore these differences in detail.
Visual Differences
The visual contrast between these birds is striking. Gannets are predominantly white with black wingtips and a yellowish head, making them easily identifiable in flight. Their long, pointed beak and sleek body shape are adaptations for their high-speed diving technique.
Cormorants, in contrast, are almost entirely black, often with a slight greenish or bronze sheen when viewed in sunlight.
They have a distinctive hooked bill and a more reptilian appearance, especially when standing with their wings spread out to dry – a behaviour rarely seen in Gannets.
Differences In Habitat
These birds show distinct habitat preferences. Gannets are true seabirds, spending most of their time over open ocean waters and breeding in significant numbers primarily in Scotland, including the Shetland Isles. They rarely venture inland and are closely tied to marine environments.
Cormorants are more versatile in their habitat choice. While they’re common along coastlines, they’ve also adapted well to inland waters, including rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. They can even be found in urban areas where suitable water bodies exist, showing remarkable adaptability compared to their strictly marine cousin.
Nests & Eggs
Nesting behaviours differ significantly between the species. Gannets are colonial breeders, typically laying just 1 chalky-blue egg per season. They nest in dense colonies on coastal cliffs and offshore islands, creating spectacular breeding sites.
Cormorants, however, lay larger clutches of 3 to 4 eggs that are pale blue-green with a chalky white coating. They nest in various locations, including cliffs, trees, or even on the ground, often in smaller colonies than Gannets. Their nests are large and bulky, made from twigs, seaweed, and grass.
Bird Calls
The vocal repertoires of these birds are quite distinct. Gannets are known for their loud, raucous calls, particularly in breeding colonies. Their typical call is a repeated “Arrrr Arrrr Arrrr” sound, with softer, raven-like calls when at sea.
Cormorants, by comparison, are generally quieter birds. They produce a range of guttural calls and croaks, particularly during the breeding season, but are not known for being especially vocal outside of these times.
Size & Weight
Size differences help distinguish these species. Gannets are larger, measuring 87 to 100 cm in length with an impressive wingspan of 165 to 180 cm. They weigh between 2,400 to 3,600 g, making them substantially heavier than Cormorants.
Cormorants are slightly smaller, measuring 80 to 100 cm in length with a wingspan of 130 to 160 cm. They typically weigh between 2,100 to 2,500 g, making them notably lighter than Gannets.
SEE ALSO: Gannet Life Cycle: Nest Building To Fledging (and everything in between)
Frequently Asked Questions
Cormorants can dive deeper, reaching depths of up to 45 metres, while Gannets typically dive from heights of up to 30 metres but don’t go as deep underwater.
Gannets are predominantly white with black wingtips, while Cormorants are almost entirely black. Gannets are also larger and are rarely seen spreading their wings to dry, unlike Cormorants.
While both can be found along UK coastlines, Gannets are strictly marine birds, while Cormorants can be found both inland and coastal. They may share some coastal habitats but have different overall distribution patterns.
Cormorants are more commonly seen in the UK as they can be found both inland and along the coast, while Gannets are restricted to coastal areas and specific breeding colonies.
