Gannets on the Central Coast: The High-Flying Ocean Hunters
If you've ever looked out to sea and spotted a big white bird diving straight down into the water like a missile, chances are you've seen a gannet in action. These seabirds are absolute pros when it comes to fishing – and they’re one of the most impressive sights along the Central Coast.
While they might not hang out near the beach like terns or pelicans, gannets can be seen just offshore, especially if you know when and where to look.
What is a gannet?
The type of gannet we see off the Central Coast is called the Australasian Gannet. They're large seabirds with white bodies, black wing tips, and a creamy-yellow head. Their long, pointed wings and sharp beak make them perfectly built for diving.
Gannets are best known for their spectacular hunting style – they soar high over the ocean, spot fish below the surface, then fold their wings back and dive at full speed into the water to catch their prey. It’s a real show if you ever get to see it.
Where can you see them?
Gannets spend most of their time out at sea, but they’re often spotted off the Central Coast, especially during the warmer months when fish are more active. Best spots for gannet-watching include:
Norah Head Lighthouse – a great lookout for spotting birds diving just offshore.
Terrigal Skillion – especially on a clear day when the water’s calm.
Catherine Hill Bay and Bateau Bay – anywhere with a bit of elevation and a view of the ocean.
They’re not usually found inland or on the beach (unless they are injured), but if you're out on a boat or at a high coastal lookout, keep your eyes on the water – you might spot them diving for their dinner.
What do they eat?
Gannets mainly eat small fish like pilchards, sardines, and anchovies. Their eyesight is excellent – they can spot a fish from up to 30 metres in the air!
Once they spot a fish, they dive headfirst into the ocean at speeds of up to 80 km/h. They even have air sacs in their face and chest to protect them from the impact of hitting the water so hard. Nature’s built-in crash padding!
Do they nest on the Central Coast?
Nope – gannets don’t nest here. They breed in large colonies on offshore islands, mostly in New Zealand and southern parts of Australia like Victoria and Tasmania. The ones we see off the Central Coast are usually feeding or passing through during migration.
Even though they don’t nest here, they’re regular visitors to our coastal waters and play an important role in the local marine ecosystem.
How can we help protect gannets?
Even though they live mostly at sea, gannets still face threats from humans. Here’s how we can help:
Keep the ocean clean – plastic and fishing lines can harm sea birds.
Fish responsibly – avoid leaving bait, hooks, or tangled line behind.
Supporting Marine Wildlife Rescue Central Coast who care for seabirds and protect breeding areas.
Gannets might not be as well-known as some other local birds, but once you’ve seen one dive like a rocket into the sea, you’ll never forget it. Keep an eye on the horizon – these ocean hunters are truly something special.