White-necked Petrel
NameWhite-necked Petrel
Common NameWhite-necked Petrel
Scientific NamePterodroma cervicalis
FamilyProcellariidae
Wingspan (cm)100
Length (cm)41
Weight (g)350
Plumage DetailsThis petrel has dark grey-brown upperparts, including the wings and tail, contrasting sharply with pure white underparts. A prominent dark cap extends below the eye, and a distinct white band forms a collar around the hindneck. The bill is dark and hooked.
Vocalization / CallAt breeding colonies, White-necked Petrels produce a variety of cooing, whistling, and cackling calls, often heard at night. Their calls can be described as mournful or eerie.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeThe White-necked Petrel breeds primarily on the Kermadec Islands (New Zealand) and possibly other remote Pacific islands. It disperses widely across the tropical and subtropical Pacific Ocean during the non-breeding season.
Identifying FeaturesDistinct white collar on hindneck, Dark cap contrasting with white body, Dark upperparts and white underparts, Graceful, arcing flight over open ocean
Description
The White-necked Petrel is a medium-sized seabird with a distinctive dark cap and white collar. It exhibits a graceful, swooping flight pattern over open ocean waters, often seen far from land.
