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Gannet: Otakamiro Point, Muriwai
Birds, sea & shore: Gannet: Otakamiro Point, Muriwai
Morus serrator, or takapu. About 89 cm long, but with a wingspan of up to 2 metres. They dive for fish and can hit the water at up to 145 kph. Inflatable air sacs in the chest take much of the shock, while internal nostrils close off and the wings are folded right back for entry.

September 2002