Gannet colony at Cape Kidnapper

Cape Kidnappers in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, is home to one of the world’s largest and most accessible mainland gannet colonies. Cape Kidnappers, known as Te Kauwae-a-Māui in Māori, is located on the east coast of the North Island, near the city of Napier in the Hawke’s Bay region. The cape juts out into the Pacific Ocean, creating an ideal environment for seabirds.

Gannets

The gannets at Cape Kidnappers are Australasian gannets (Morus serrator), known for their striking appearance. These large seabirds have a wingspan of up to 2 meters (6.5 feet) and are easily recognizable by their white bodies, black-tipped wings, and golden-yellow heads. Gannets are expert divers, plunging from great heights into the sea to catch fish.

Gannet colony at Cape Kidnapper
Gannet colony at Cape Kidnapper
Gannet colony at Cape Kidnapper
Gannets at Cape Kidnapper
Gannet colony at Cape Kidnapper
Levitating gannet
Gannet colony at Cape Kidnapper
Gannet landing in the colony
Gannet colony at Cape Kidnapper
Gannets at Cape Kidnapper

From a travel in December 2012 – January 2013.