Gould's Petrel
NameGould's Petrel
Common NameGould's Petrel
Scientific NamePterodroma leucoptera
FamilyProcellariidae
Wingspan (cm)70
Length (cm)30
Weight (g)180
Plumage DetailsDark grey-brown upperparts with a prominent dark 'W' pattern across the wings. Underparts are white, with a dark cap extending below the eye. The underside of the wings is mostly white with dark trailing edges and wingtips. It has a short, stout black bill.
Vocalization / CallAt breeding colonies, vocalizations include high-pitched 'pee-pee-pee' calls and lower 'oo-er' or 'kek-kek-kek' sounds. They are generally silent when at sea.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeBreeds on a few small islands off the coast of New South Wales, Australia, such as Cabbage Tree Island and Boondelbah Island. After breeding, it disperses widely across the Tasman Sea and into the Pacific Ocean.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size for a petrel, Distinctive dark 'W' pattern on upperwings, White underparts with dark cap, Slender wings and graceful flight, Short, stout black bill
Description
Gould's Petrel is a small, slender-winged seabird known for its graceful flight over the open ocean. It exhibits a distinctive dark 'W' pattern across its upperwings, contrasting with its white underparts. This species primarily feeds on small squid and crustaceans.
