Pintado Petrel
NamePintado Petrel
Common NamePintado Petrel
Scientific NameDaption capense
FamilyProcellariidae
Wingspan (cm)86
Length (cm)39
Weight (g)400
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is strikingly pied, with a dark brown to black head, neck, and upper mantle. The back and upperwings are mottled black and white, creating a checkered pattern, while the underparts are pure white. The tail is white with a broad black terminal band.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include harsh cackles, guttural croaks, and whistling notes, often given during breeding season or when competing for food at sea.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeCircumpolar in the Southern Ocean, breeding on islands around Antarctica and the sub-Antarctic region, including the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia, South Sandwich Islands, and various other islands.
Identifying FeaturesDistinctive black and white checkered plumage, Dark head and neck contrasting with white underparts, White tail with a broad black terminal band, Short, stout black bill with prominent nasal tubes
Description
The Pintado Petrel is a medium-sized seabird known for its distinctive checkered black and white plumage. It is a highly pelagic species, spending most of its life at sea, only coming ashore to breed on Antarctic and sub-Antarctic islands.
