Snow Petrel
Image: Ron + Sandy (cc-by-nc)
NameSnow Petrel
Common NameSnow Petrel
Scientific NamePagodroma nivea
FamilyProcellariidae
Wingspan (cm)85
Length (cm)35
Weight (g)350
Plumage DetailsEntirely pure white plumage, including underparts and upperparts. It has black eyes and a small, black bill. Some subspecies may show dark shafts on the primary feathers.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include harsh, guttural cackles, croaks, and squawks, particularly around breeding colonies. They can also produce softer cooing sounds.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsmarine, polar, coastal, ice
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeCircumpolar distribution in the Antarctic region, breeding on the Antarctic continent and surrounding islands. It is often found near pack ice and icebergs.
Identifying Featurespure white plumage, black eyes, small black bill, graceful flight, Antarctic habitat
Description
The Snow Petrel is a striking, pure white seabird found exclusively in the Antarctic region. It is known for its graceful flight over icy waters and its ability to nest far inland on the Antarctic continent.
