SOLAN GOOSE Meaning and
Definition
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The Solan goose, commonly known as the northern gannet (Morus bassanus), is a large seabird species belonging to the gannet family Sulidae. Found primarily in the North Atlantic region, especially along the coasts of Europe and North America, this marine bird is renowned for its striking appearance and exceptional diving abilities.
With a wingspan of up to 6.5 feet (2 meters), the Solan goose has a predominantly white plumage, contrasting with black flight feathers. Adults display a distinct yellowish head and a dagger-like bill, used for efficient catching and consuming fish. During breeding season, their bright-blue eyes become ringed with a delicate silvery-white hue, enhancing their unique visual appeal.
These birds are famous for their remarkable plunge-diving technique, which involves flying high above the water, folding their wings back, and striking the sea surface at incredible speeds. This technique allows them to catch small fish, such as herring, mackerel, and sand eels, while diving to depths of up to 100 feet (30 meters). The Solan goose forms large colonies, often nesting either on cliff ledges or in more recent years, man-made structures such as offshore wind turbines.
Due to their captivating appearance and impressive aerial acrobatics, the Solan goose has become a common attraction for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Their imposing size and charismatic nature have also made them a subject of study for scientists interested in their breeding habits, foraging behavior, and migrations.
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A web-footed sea-fowl, found on the coasts of Great Britain and Ireland, &c.; the gannet.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SOLAN GOOSE
- aolan goose
- zolan goose
- xolan goose
- dolan goose
- eolan goose
- wolan goose
- silan goose
- sklan goose
- sllan goose
- splan goose
- s0lan goose
- s9lan goose
- sopan goose
- solzn goose
- solsn goose
- solwn goose
Etymology of SOLAN GOOSE
The word "Solan Goose" originated from the Scottish dialect term for the Northern Gannet, a seabird species found in the North Atlantic Ocean. The word "solan" refers to the town of "St. Kilda" in Scotland, where these birds commonly nested in large colonies. The term "solan" is believed to have derived from the Old Norse word "solmundr", meaning "solitary". In Old Norse, "solmundr" initially referred to the puffin, but over time, it came to be associated with the Northern Gannet. Hence, the name "Solan Goose" for this seabird species.
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