The Cape gannet is a large seabird of the gannet family, Sulidae.
Region
Southern African coasts
Typical Environment
Breeds on offshore islands along the Atlantic and southern Indian Ocean coasts of Namibia and South Africa, notably at Ichaboe, Mercury, Possession, Malgas, and Bird Island (Lambert’s Bay and Algoa Bay). Forages widely over the Benguela and Agulhas current systems, typically above the continental shelf and shelf edge. Prefers productive upwelling zones with dense shoals of small pelagic fish. Non-breeding birds may disperse north along the west coast to Angola or east into the southwest Indian Ocean but remain marine.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 100 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Cape gannet is a powerful plunge-diver that can hit the ocean at high speed to catch schooling fish like sardines and anchovies. It breeds in dense colonies on a handful of islands off Namibia and South Africa and performs striking bill-fencing and bowing displays with its mate. At sea it often forages alongside dolphins or follows fishing vessels. Its golden head, blue-rimmed eyes, and black-tipped wings make it easy to recognize.
Close-up of the head
Greeting ritual
Cape gannet landing
Morus capensis – MHNT
Cape gannet colony, Bird Island, Lambert's Bay, South Africa
Temperament
social and colonial at breeding sites
Flight Pattern
strong flier with deep wingbeats and long glides; spectacular high-speed plunge-dives
Social Behavior
Breeds in dense colonies on flat, open island surfaces, nesting on the ground. Pairs perform elaborate greeting and bill-fencing rituals and typically lay a single egg, with both parents incubating and feeding the chick. Highly territorial around the nest but tolerant in tight colony spacing.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Generally silent at sea; at colonies emits loud raspy brays and cackling calls. Vocal exchanges intensify during pair greetings, displays, and territorial disputes.
