Gray-backed Storm-Petrel
NameGray-backed Storm-Petrel
Common NameGray-backed Storm-Petrel
Scientific NameGarrodia nereis
FamilyOceanitidae
Wingspan (cm)40
Length (cm)17.5
Weight (g)32
Plumage DetailsThe head, neck, and upper breast are dark sooty-brown, contrasting sharply with a pale gray back and rump. The underparts are white, and the tail is dark with a pale gray base.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent at sea, but vocalizes at breeding colonies with soft purring, churring, or twittering notes, often heard at night.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeCircumpolar in the Southern Ocean, breeding on subantarctic islands including those around New Zealand, Australia, and the South Atlantic.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Dark head and upper breast contrasting with pale gray back, White underparts, Short, square tail, Pattering flight over water
Description
The Gray-backed Storm-Petrel is a small, pelagic seabird characterized by its dark head and contrasting pale gray back. It exhibits a distinctive fluttering flight, often pattering its feet on the water's surface while foraging.
