About the Fulmar

Fulmars are seabirds with unique adaptations that allow them to thrive in harsh marine environments. Northern Fulmar (Fulmarus glacialis) are found in the North Atlantic and North Pacific, breeding on cliffs and islands in Arctic and sub-Arctic regions.

Southern Fulmars (Fulmarus glacialoides) are found in the Southern Ocean around Antarctica. Like other members of the Procellariidae family, Fulmars have distinctive tubular nostrils on top of their beaks. These help them excrete excess salt from seawater. Fulmars are also known for their longevity, with some individuals living over 40 years.

Fulmars are opportunistic feeders, consuming fish, squid, and crustaceans. They also scavenge from ships and even follow fishing vessels for scraps. They have a distinctive gliding flight, using their stiff wings to ride ocean winds effortlessly. They can often be seen soaring close to the water surface.

They typically breed on cliffs, laying a single egg per breeding season. Both parents take turns incubating the egg and feeding the chick. They are colonial breeders, often forming large, noisy colonies that can be pretty dense, with nests close together on narrow ledges. Making for that thrilling and haunting sound you get from bird cliffs on expedition cruises.

Fulmars are often seen around northern coasts and are common in their breeding areas. They are pelagic outside the breeding season and spend most of their lives at sea.

Despite their wide distribution, fulmars are particularly vulnerable to plastic pollution. They often ingest plastic debris, mistaking it for food, which can lead to starvation or poisoning.

Changes in sea temperature and ice cover can affect the availability of their prey, impacting breeding success and survival rates.

Join for FREE to view article

Members get full access to this article and all of ExplorEarth's guides and offers.

JOIN

Already have an account? Log in

Why create an account with ExplorEarth?

Landing directly on sea ice from ice breaker ship
1
Discover
  • Introduction to Expedition Cruises
  • Articles from top Travel Writers
  • Wildlife guides
  • Webinars
Sylvia Earle ship in Sam Ford Fjord Arctic Burnham Arlidge
2
Compare
  • Which destination you'll visit next
  • Expert guides to every region
  • Help choosing right ship
  • Free Expert Advice
Walrus resting on sea ice with M/S Stockholm in the background, showcasing Arctic wildlife and expedition cruising.
3
Choose
  • Over 420 cruises to choose from
  • Access special offers
  • Expert Advice for the best cabins
  • Find best agents for pre/post travel
Landing directly on sea ice from ice breaker ship
1
Discover
  • Introduction to Expedition Cruises
  • Articles from top Travel Writers
  • Wildlife guides
  • Webinars
Sylvia Earle ship in Sam Ford Fjord Arctic Burnham Arlidge
2
Compare
  • Which destination you'll visit next
  • Expert guides to every region
  • Help choosing right ship
  • Free Expert Advice
Walrus resting on sea ice with M/S Stockholm in the background, showcasing Arctic wildlife and expedition cruising.
3
Choose
  • Over 420 cruises to choose from
  • Access special offers
  • Expert Advice for the best cabins
  • Find best agents for pre/post travel