Northern Fulmars are common hardy seabirds frequently encountered off the Farallon Islands, where they rest on the water or patrol offshore waters with stiff, rapid wingbeats and long glides. They have a stocky, gull-like appearance with a large head, short neck, and thick yellowish bill with distinctive tubular nostrils for expelling salt and aiding their strong sense of smell while foraging for fish, squid, and krill. This species exhibits genetic color polymorphism with light, dark, and intermediate morphs that persist throughout life. The mottled gray-and-white plumage here reflects the bird’s adaptation to constant exposure in the open ocean.
Photo details
- Species
- Northern Fulmar
- Scientific name
- Fulmarus glacialis
- Location
- Farallon Islands
- Posted
- July 2026
