Salvin's Prion

The Salvin's prion, or Pachyptila salvini, is a small seabird with a stout stature, measuring approximately 29 centimeters in length. It boasts a plumage of grey and white, complemented by a distinctive blue bill.

Identification Tips

This species can be recognized by its grey and white plumage and medium-sized blue bill, which is equipped with lamellae for filtering seawater.

Habitat

Salvin's prion is a pelagic bird, spending much of its life at sea. It comes ashore only to breed on subantarctic islands.

Distribution

The bird breeds on several subantarctic islands, predominantly on Île aux Cochons in the Crozet Islands. Its range extends across the southern Indian Ocean, from South Africa to New Zealand.

Behaviour

Salvin's prion is a nocturnal visitor to its breeding colonies, a strategy to evade predators such as skuas. It nests in burrows, often dug into the soil, and both parents are involved in incubation and chick-rearing.

Breeding

Breeding takes place in large, colonial gatherings. A single egg is laid in November or early December, with an incubation period of around 50 days. After hatching, the chick is fed by both parents and takes to the wing approximately 60 days later.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of Salvin's prion primarily consists of amphipods and krill, though it will opportunistically consume fish and squid. It employs filter feeding as well as seizing and hydroplaning techniques to capture its prey.

Conservation status

With an estimated global population of around 12 million birds, Salvin's prion is classified as Least Concern. Despite localized declines due to introduced predators like rats and feral cats, the species remains widespread and abundant.