Black-winged Petrel
NameBlack-winged Petrel
Common NameBlack-winged Petrel
Scientific NamePterodroma nigripennis
FamilyProcellariidae
Wingspan (cm)66
Length (cm)29
Weight (g)185
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dark grey-brown, forming a distinct 'M' pattern across the wings when viewed from above. Underparts are entirely white, with a dark bar visible on the underwing. The head has a dark cap extending below the eye.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations at breeding colonies are typically high-pitched, squeaky whistles and 'ti-ti-ti' notes, often given at night.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds on oceanic islands in the South Pacific, including the Kermadec, Chatham, Lord Howe, and Norfolk Islands. Disperses widely across the Pacific Ocean during the non-breeding season.
Identifying Featuresdark M-pattern on upperwings, white underparts, dark underwing bar, dark cap extending below eye, slender body and long wings, buoyant, erratic flight
Description
The Black-winged Petrel is a small, slender seabird known for its graceful, buoyant flight over the open ocean. It has a distinctive dark M-pattern across its upperwings and contrasting white underparts, making it identifiable at sea.
