Cape Verde Petrel
NameCape Verde Petrel
Common NameCape Verde Petrel
Scientific NamePterodroma feae
FamilyProcellariidae
Wingspan (cm)86
Length (cm)35
Weight (g)350
Plumage DetailsThis petrel has dark grey-brown upperparts, including the head, back, and upperwings. The underparts are white, with a dark patch on the underwing coverts. There is a distinct white patch on the face, particularly around the chin and throat, contrasting with the darker crown and eye area.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations at breeding colonies are typically nocturnal, consisting of various high-pitched, squealing, and cackling calls, often described as 'ti-ti-ti' or 'kek-kek-kek' sounds.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds on the Cape Verde Islands (primarily Fogo, Santo Antão, and São Nicolau). At sea, it ranges widely across the tropical and subtropical Atlantic Ocean, from the breeding grounds north to the Azores and south towards the equator.
Identifying FeaturesDark grey-brown upperparts, White underparts with dark underwing patch, Distinct white face patch, Long, narrow wings, Pelagic flight pattern
Description
The Cape Verde Petrel is a medium-sized seabird with long, narrow wings adapted for efficient pelagic flight. It spends most of its life at sea, only coming to remote oceanic islands to breed in burrows. Its flight is typically fast and erratic, with deep wing beats and glides.
