Kerguelen Petrel

The Kerguelen petrel, known scientifically as Aphrodroma brevirostris, is a small seabird measuring 36 cm in length. Its plumage is a uniform slate-grey, and it is the sole representative of the genus Aphrodroma. This pelagic species is a denizen of the Southern Ocean, gracefully navigating the circumpolar waters.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Kerguelen petrel, look for its short bill, which is a distinctive feature as suggested by its Latin name 'brevirostris'. Its grey plumage is consistent throughout, aiding in its identification against the vast backdrop of the ocean.

Habitat

The Kerguelen petrel is a pelagic bird, spending much of its life soaring over the open ocean. It is rarely seen from land except during the breeding season when it visits remote islands.

Distribution

This species has a circumpolar distribution in the Southern Ocean. It breeds on various islands in the southern Atlantic and Indian Oceans, including Gough Island, Marion Island, Prince Edward Island, Crozet Islands, and Kerguelen Island.

Behaviour

The Kerguelen petrel is a nocturnal visitor to its breeding colonies. It nests in burrows dug into wet soil, often positioned to avoid the prevailing winds. This bird is known for its pelagic lifestyle, spending long periods at sea.

Breeding

Breeding takes place colonially on isolated islands. Notable breeding grounds include Gough Island in the Atlantic and Marion Island, Prince Edward Island, Crozet Islands, and Kerguelen Island in the Indian Ocean. The Kerguelen petrel nests nocturnally, preferring burrows in wet soil that are typically oriented away from prevailing winds. Each breeding season, a single, unusually round egg is laid. Both parents share the responsibility of incubating the egg for 49 days. Once hatched, the chick takes about 60 days to fledge.

Conservation status

The Kerguelen petrel is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List. This indicates that, at present, there are no immediate threats to its population numbers that would warrant a higher level of concern.