Snow Petrel
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NameSnow Petrel
Common NameSnow Petrel
Scientific NamePagodroma nivea
FamilyProcellariidae
Wingspan (cm)85
Length (cm)35
Weight (g)355
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is entirely pure white, contrasting sharply with its small, dark eyes and a short, stout black bill. Its legs and feet are also black.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include harsh, grating calls often described as 'karr-karr-karr' or 'kek-kek-kek', particularly when disturbed or during breeding. Softer cooing sounds can also be heard at the nest site.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary HabitatsAntarctic waters, ice floes, coastal cliffs, open ocean
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Snow Petrel has a circumpolar distribution in the Antarctic, breeding on rocky cliffs and nunataks throughout the Antarctic continent and surrounding islands. It forages widely in the Southern Ocean, often near pack ice.
Identifying FeaturesPure white plumage, Small dark eyes, Short black bill, Graceful flight over ice, Antarctic distribution
Description
The Snow Petrel is a striking, pure white seabird found exclusively in the Antarctic region. Highly adapted to extreme cold, it is often seen flying gracefully over ice floes and open water, even venturing far inland over the Antarctic continent.
