About Fulmarus glacialis (Linnaeus, 1761)
This species, the northern fulmar (scientific name: Fulmarus glacialis (Linnaeus, 1761)), measures 46 cm (18 in) in length, with a wingspan ranging from 102 to 112 cm (40–44 in). Body mass of the northern fulmar varies between 450 to 1,000 g (16 to 35 oz). Its base coloration is grey and white, with a thick pale yellow bill and bluish legs. Three different color morphs exist for the species: a light morph, a dark (or "blue") morph, and an intermediate morph found only in the Pacific Ocean. Only the dark morph has more than just dark edges on its underbody. All morphs share pale inner primaries on the upper surface of their wings. Pacific intermediate morphs have darker tails than Atlantic morphs. Similar to other petrels, northern fulmars have limited walking ability. They are strong fliers with a stiff wing movement that differs noticeably from that of gulls. Compared to gulls, they have a bull-necked appearance and short, stubby bills. They are a long-lived species; a 31-year lifespan is common, and an individual over 50 years old has been exceptionally recorded on Eynhallow in Orkney.
