Wilson's Storm-petrel

Overview

Wilson's Storm-Petrel is a remarkably hardy, small seabird that ranks among the most abundant bird species globally. Despite its dainty appearance, it is a wide-ranging pelagic traveler, spending most of its life at sea and only returning to land to nest in remote Antarctic and sub-Antarctic regions.

Distribution & habitat

This species has a circumpolar distribution, breeding primarily on the Antarctic continent and surrounding islands, including South Georgia and the Falklands. During the non-breeding season, it disperses across all major oceans, frequently appearing in the North Atlantic and Indian Oceans. It is a strictly pelagic bird, typically found over the continental shelf and deep ocean, and only comes ashore to occupy rocky crevices or burrows for nesting.

Appearance

Measuring approximately 18 cm in length, this bird is characterized by its sooty-brown plumage, a conspicuous white rump, and a pale brown band across the upper wings. In flight, its long legs extend noticeably beyond the tail, a key identification feature. Its bill, eyes, and webbed feet are black, though the webbing between the toes is yellow.

Biology & behavior

Wilson's Storm-Petrel is highly gregarious at sea, often gathering in large flocks near food sources or following ships. Its flight is fluttery and swallow-like, often involving long glides. The name "petrel" is derived from St. Peter, referencing the bird's unique habit of "walking" or pattering on the water's surface while feeding. They are nocturnal at their breeding colonies to avoid predators.

Feeding

These birds forage by hovering just above the water with wings outstretched, pattering their feet to remain stable while dipping their bills or heads to scoop up planktonic crustaceans, small fish, and squid.