Chatham Islands Petrel
NameChatham Islands Petrel
Common NameChatham Islands Petrel
Scientific NamePterodroma axillaris
FamilyProcellariidae
Wingspan (cm)67
Length (cm)30
Weight (g)200
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dark grey, contrasting with white underparts. A prominent black 'armpit' (axillary) patch is visible on the underwing, extending as a dark bar across the underwing. The head is dark grey with a white forehead and a dark eye patch. The bill is short, stout, and black.
Vocalization / CallAt breeding colonies, they emit a variety of high-pitched, squeaky calls, often described as a distinctive 'ti-ti-ti' or 'wee-wee-wee', used for communication and territorial defense.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, forest
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeThis species breeds exclusively on the Chatham Islands, New Zealand. During the non-breeding season, it disperses widely across the Pacific Ocean, with records extending to the eastern Pacific off South America.
Identifying FeaturesDistinctive black 'armpit' (axillary) patch on underwing, Dark grey upperparts and white underparts, Nocturnal at breeding colonies, Short, stout black bill, Endemic breeder to the Chatham Islands
Description
The Chatham Islands Petrel is a medium-sized seabird with dark grey upperparts and white underparts, known for its distinctive black 'armpit' markings. This nocturnal species nests in burrows on forested islands and spends its non-breeding season at sea.
