Kermadec Petrel
NameKermadec Petrel
Common NameKermadec Petrel
Scientific NamePterodroma neglecta
FamilyProcellariidae
Wingspan (cm)105
Length (cm)39
Weight (g)525
Plumage DetailsHighly variable plumage, ranging from entirely dark brown (dark morph, as pictured, with slightly paler face/throat and pale primary shafts on underwing) to mostly white with dark upperparts (light morph), and various intermediate forms. All morphs typically have a dark bill and dark legs.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of cooing, cackling, and whistling calls, primarily heard at night on their breeding grounds.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds on oceanic islands in the South Pacific, including the Kermadec Islands, Lord Howe Island, Norfolk Island, and the Juan Fernández Islands. Disperses widely across the South Pacific Ocean when not breeding.
Identifying FeaturesHighly variable plumage (dark, light, and intermediate morphs), Long, narrow wings, Stiff-winged gliding flight (shearing), Pale primary shafts visible on the underwing (especially in dark morphs), Dark bill
Description
The Kermadec Petrel is a medium-sized seabird known for its highly variable plumage, ranging from dark to light morphs. It exhibits a characteristic stiff-winged gliding flight over the open ocean, often shearing close to the water's surface.
