Photo: Cape Kidnappers Colony Hawkes Bay

Perched high above the turquoise colored waters of the Pacific Ocean, three Australasian Gannets take time out at the Cape Kidnappers colony in Hawkes Bay, New Zealand.

The steep cliffs of the Cape Kidnappers colony in Hawkes Bay on the North Island of New Zealand rise high above the ocean's surface where three Australasian Gannets enjoy the beautiful scenery. There are usually thousands of gannets here when it is breeding season but these three seemed to have found some peace and quiet from all the others.

Their distinctive yellow heads and white plumage with black tipped wings is very noticeable especially when the whole colony is together. From this high cliff above the beautiful colored waters of the ocean, these Australasian gannets can dive at great speed to catch their next meal.Once in flight, you can watch these birds soar above Hawkes Bay with their massive wing span. The Australasian Gannet is considered a fairly large bird and watching great numbers take flight from Cape Kidnappers colony is incredible to watch.

Cape Kidnappers in Hawkes Bay, New Zealand is the largest colony around New Zealand and many tourists visit this colony to view these fascinating birds for themselves. ... continue below the picture...

This picture is part of the photo album "Animal Pictures" - there are more beautiful images waiting for you.

... Many different tours are available to explore the region and spend some time at the colony or venture out on your own in a water vessel and view this massive colony from Hawkes Bay. Be sure you get to Cape Kidnappers colony some way, as it is an incredible sight to witness.

Australasian Gannets, Morus serrator, resting near the cliff edge on the fringes of the Cape Kidnappers colony, Hawkes Bay, North Island, New Zealand.