The Gannet (Morus) is a large pelagic seabird in the family Sulidae (gannets and boobies). 

Gannets are large, powerfully built seabirds characterised by predominantly white plumage with contrasting black wingtips, long pointed bills and streamlined bodies adapted for plunge-diving. Across the genus, adults measure approximately 85–100 cm in length, with a wingspan of about 150–180 cm. Body mass generally ranges between 2.2–3.6 kg, varying by species and sex. The eyes are pale and set within bare facial skin; juveniles are darker brown, gradually acquiring adult plumage over several years.

Vocalisations consist of harsh, guttural calls, particularly within densely packed breeding colonies.

Egg Description:
The egg is pale bluish or greenish when freshly laid, soon becoming chalky white due to a thick calcareous coating characteristic of the genus. During incubation, the surface commonly becomes stained brown from contact with nest material and guano. The shell is relatively thick and robust. A single egg is laid per breeding attempt.

Location:
Species within the genus Morus breed colonially on steep sea cliffs, rocky stacks and offshore islands in temperate and subtropical regions of the Atlantic, Pacific and southern oceans. Outside the breeding season, gannets are highly pelagic, ranging widely over open ocean.

Average Size (Adult Bird):
Length: ~85–100 cm.
Wingspan: ~150–180 cm.
Weight: ~2.2–3.6 kg (varies by species and sex).

Family:
Sulidae (gannets and boobies)

Genus:
Morus

Ecological Role:
Gannets are specialised plunge-divers, feeding primarily on shoaling marine fish. They may dive from considerable heights, entering the water at high speed to pursue prey beneath the surface. As upper-level marine predators, they play an important role in regulating fish populations and serve as indicators of marine ecosystem health. Large colonies contribute significant nutrient input to cliff and island habitats.

Movement and Behaviour:
All species of Morus are migratory or dispersive outside the breeding season, travelling extensively over open ocean. Breeding colonies are dense, with nests spaced closely together. Pairs typically form long-term bonds and often return to established nesting sites annually.

Reproduction & Eggs:
Nests are substantial mounds constructed from seaweed, grass and other vegetation, bound together with soil and guano, and placed on cliff ledges or level rocky ground. A single egg is laid. Incubation lasts approximately 42–46 days and is shared by both parents, who incubate the egg using the vascularised webs of their feet. Chicks fledge after approximately 11–14 weeks, depending on species.

Conservation Status:
The conservation status varies by species within the genus Morus, though several are currently assessed as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Local pressures may include changes in fish availability, marine pollution and disturbance at breeding colonies.

Collection Information:
Originally collected by Steven and Sons, London; date unknown.