Barau's Petrel
NameBarau's Petrel
Common NameBarau's Petrel
Scientific NamePterodroma baraui
FamilyProcellariidae
Wingspan (cm)95
Length (cm)39
Weight (g)400
Plumage DetailsThe upperparts are dark grey-brown, forming a distinctive 'M' pattern across the wings when viewed from above. The underparts are white, with dark markings on the underwing coverts and a dark trailing edge to the underwing. The head is white with a dark cap and a dark patch around the eye, extending to the bill.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent at sea. At breeding colonies, they emit high-pitched, squeaky calls, often described as 'ti-ti-ti-ti' or 'pee-pee-pee-pee', sometimes interspersed with more guttural 'oo-er' or 'oo-ah' sounds.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, mountain
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeBreeds endemically on Réunion Island and possibly Rodrigues in the Indian Ocean. It disperses widely across the Indian Ocean, foraging in waters off East Africa, the Arabian Sea, and further east.
Identifying FeaturesDistinctive dark 'M' pattern on upperwings, White underparts with dark underwing markings, Dark cap and eye patch, Long, slender wings for efficient gliding, Pelagic behavior, rarely seen close to land outside breeding season
Description
Barau's Petrel is a medium-sized seabird known for its graceful flight over the open ocean. It exhibits a striking black and white plumage pattern, with dark upperparts and contrasting white underparts. This species breeds in burrows on high volcanic islands.
