White-bellied Storm-Petrel
NameWhite-bellied Storm-Petrel
Common NameWhite-bellied Storm-Petrel
Scientific NameFregetta grallaria
FamilyOceanitidae
Wingspan (cm)48.5
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)52.5
Plumage DetailsSooty black upperparts, including the head, back, and upperwings, contrast sharply with bright white underparts from the throat to the undertail coverts. A prominent white rump is also visible. The bill and legs are dark, with legs often trailing behind the body in flight.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent at sea, but at breeding colonies, they produce soft, purring or churring notes, sometimes described as a 'churr-churr-churr' or 'peep-peep-peep' sound.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds on remote oceanic islands in the South Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans (e.g., Tristan da Cunha, Gough Island, St. Paul Island, Juan Fernández Islands, Lord Howe Island). It disperses widely across tropical and subtropical oceans outside the breeding season.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Dark upperparts with bright white underparts and rump, Distinctive 'walking on water' flight, Long legs trailing in flight
Description
This small, pelagic seabird exhibits a distinctive flight pattern, often appearing to 'walk' on the water surface as it forages. It has striking dark upperparts and contrasting white underparts, including a prominent white belly and rump.
