New Zealand Storm-Petrel
NameNew Zealand Storm-Petrel
Common NameNew Zealand Storm-Petrel
Scientific NameFregetta maoriana
FamilyOceanitidae
Wingspan (cm)47.5
Length (cm)16.5
Weight (g)35
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly dark sooty-brown on the upperparts, head, and breast. It features a striking white belly with variable dark streaking or mottling on the flanks, a prominent white rump band, and dark undertail coverts. A noticeable white bar is present on the underwing.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent when at sea, the New Zealand Storm-Petrel produces soft chirps, purrs, or trills at its breeding colonies, typically heard during nocturnal visits to burrows.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statuscritically-endangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to New Zealand, this species breeds on small offshore islands, notably Little Barrier Island. It forages in the pelagic waters surrounding New Zealand.
Identifying Featuresdark sooty-brown upperparts, white belly with dark streaking on flanks, white rump band, white bar on underwing, small size, distinctive flight pattern (pattering over water)
Description
This small, dark seabird is characterized by its distinctive white belly and rump patch, often observed pattering over the ocean surface. It exhibits a buoyant, erratic flight, frequently dipping and hovering to pick food from the water.
