Subject: Northern Gannet aggression, Morus bassanus

Location: Cape St. Mary's, Newfoundland

Stock Number: 08-20578 (above) and 08-20604 (below)

Comments: Gannets nest very close together on sea rocks and sea stacks. If a new arrival moves to close to existing territories, the birds attack the newcomer with their beaks.

Above, two birds grab the neck of a third bird. Meanwhile, a fourth Gannet pinches the neck of one of the attackers, apparently believing the attacker has stepped out of bounds in the course of his attack.

Below, one hapless newcomer has his neck attacked from both sides.