Snow Petrel
NameSnow Petrel
Common NameSnow Petrel
Scientific NamePagodroma nivea
FamilyProcellariidae
Wingspan (cm)85
Length (cm)35
Weight (g)350
Plumage DetailsEntirely pure white plumage, with contrasting black eyes, a small black bill, and black legs and feet. There are no dark markings on its body.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include harsh, guttural croaks, cackles, and squawks, particularly at breeding colonies. They also produce softer cooing sounds.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatspolar ice, open ocean, coastal cliffs
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeCircumpolar Antarctic, breeding on the Antarctic continent and surrounding islands, and foraging throughout the Southern Ocean, often in close proximity to pack ice.
Identifying Featurespure white plumage, black eyes, small black bill, dark legs/feet, often associated with ice and polar regions
Description
The Snow Petrel is a small, striking seabird entirely covered in pure white plumage, perfectly camouflaged against its icy Antarctic habitat. It is highly adapted to extreme cold, often seen flying gracefully over pack ice or resting on icebergs.
