New Caledonian Storm-Petrel
NameNew Caledonian Storm-Petrel
Common NameNew Caledonian Storm-Petrel
Scientific NameFregetta lineata
FamilyOceanitidae
Wingspan (cm)48.5
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)52.5
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly sooty-brown on the head, upperparts, and breast. It features a striking white belly and undertail coverts, often with variable dark streaking or mottling on the flanks. A pale diagonal bar is typically visible on the upperwing.
Vocalization / CallLittle is known about its vocalizations at sea. Like other storm-petrels, it likely produces soft chirps, purrs, or trills primarily around its breeding colonies, which are rarely encountered.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statuscritically-endangered
Geographic RangeThis species is known from waters around New Caledonia and Vanuatu in the southwestern Pacific, with occasional sightings elsewhere in the region. Its breeding sites are extremely remote and largely undiscovered, likely on small oceanic islands.
Identifying FeaturesSmall, dark storm-petrel with white belly, Dark rump contrasting with white undertail, Variable dark streaking on white flanks/belly, Pale diagonal bar on upperwing, Erratic, butterfly-like flight
Description
The New Caledonian Storm-Petrel is a small, pelagic seabird known for its dark upperparts and contrasting white belly. It exhibits an erratic, butterfly-like flight pattern as it skims low over the ocean surface, foraging for food.
