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Simon Willison's Blog·Aug 15·5 min read
Northern Gannet
TL;DR
Morris, the only known Northern Gannet in the Pacific Ocean, has made Pillar Point harbor his home for 14 years, easily identifiable by his unique appearance. He often associates with smaller Brandt’s cormorants, making him a local celebrity.
✦ Why It Matters
Observe local wildlife to appreciate biodiversity and understand ecological changes in your area.
Key Takeaways
- Visit Pillar Point harbor to spot Morris and learn about local wildlife.
- Engage with local birdwatching communities for insights.
- Support conservation efforts to protect unique species.
- Document sightings to contribute to wildlife research.
Full Summary
Morris is a Northern Gannet (Morus bassanus), a species typically found in the North Atlantic, and he is unique as the only one recorded in the Pacific Ocean. He arrived at the Farallon Islands off San Francisco 14 years ago and has since made Pillar Point harbor his home.
Morris is easily identifiable due to his striking white feathers and yellow head, often seen socializing with smaller Brandt’s cormorants. His presence has drawn attention from bird watchers and researchers alike, highlighting the adaptability of wildlife in changing environments.
The phenomenon of a gannet in this region raises questions about migratory patterns and habitat changes. Morris serves as a reminder of the importance of biodiversity and the unexpected occurrences in nature.