Atlantic Petrel

The Atlantic petrel, known scientifically as Pterodroma incerta, is a member of the gadfly petrel family. This robust seabird is characterized by its dark coloration, contrasted by a white belly. Adults measure approximately 43 cm in length and exhibit a powerful, stocky build. The head may present a grey hue in worn plumage, and the wings and tail bear a brown undercoating.

Identification Tips

When observing the Atlantic petrel, look for a large, dark seabird with a white underbelly. The grey appearance of the head and the brown undercoating on the wings and tail are distinctive features that aid in identification. Their flight is typically powerful and direct, with rapid wingbeats.

Habitat

The Atlantic petrel nests in burrows dug into peaty soils amidst fern-bush vegetation. These burrows are found on cliffsides, with nesting locations ranging from 50 to 300 meters above sea level on Gough Island, and historically up to 700 meters on Tristan da Cunha.

Distribution

Endemic to the South Atlantic Ocean, the Atlantic petrel breeds in vast colonies on Tristan da Cunha and Gough Island. At sea, they range from Brazil to Namibia, with most sightings west of the breeding islands and along the subtropical convergence.

Behaviour

This species is nocturnal in its breeding habits, with a lifespan averaging 15 years. The Atlantic petrel is known to feed at night, targeting prey that ascends to the ocean's surface.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of the Atlantic petrel are not well-documented in this source, thus this section will be omitted.

Breeding

Atlantic petrels breed in large colonies, nesting in burrows. They exhibit nocturnal breeding habits, with a low survival rate of eggs, leading to concerns about their population trends.

Similar Species

There is no information on similar species provided in the source, so this section will be omitted.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Atlantic petrel is predominantly squid, which constitutes 87% of its diet in some studies. They also feed on lanternfishes that surface at night, as well as crustaceans and some fish species.

Conservation status

The Atlantic petrel is currently classified as Endangered by the IUCN. Despite a global population estimated at around 5 million birds, the species faces threats from introduced predators and environmental changes. Conservation efforts include education, research, and protection measures on Tristan da Cunha and Gough Island, a nature reserve and World Heritage site.