Mottled Petrel
NameMottled Petrel
Common NameMottled Petrel
Scientific NamePterodroma inexpectata
FamilyProcellariidae
Wingspan (cm)88.5
Length (cm)34.5
Weight (g)375
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dark grey-brown with a prominent dark 'M' pattern extending across the wings and back. The underparts are white, featuring a distinct dark belly patch and dark underwing linings. The face is pale with a dark smudge around the eye, and the bill is dark.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent at sea. At breeding colonies, they produce a variety of calls including high-pitched whistles, 'ti-ti-ti' notes, and guttural croaks.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds on islands off New Zealand, including the Snares, Antipodes, and Auckland Islands. During the non-breeding season, it migrates to the North Pacific Ocean, ranging from Alaska south to California and across to Japan.
Identifying FeaturesDark 'M' pattern across upperwings, White underparts with a distinct dark belly patch, Dark underwing linings, Pale face with dark eye patch, Buoyant, graceful flight
Description
The Mottled Petrel is a medium-sized seabird known for its graceful, buoyant flight over open ocean. It exhibits a distinctive dark 'M' pattern across its upperwings, contrasting with its pale underparts and dark belly patch. This species spends most of its life at sea, returning to remote islands only for breeding.
