Providence Petrel

The Providence Petrel, Pterodroma solandri, is a gadfly petrel of considerable size and heft. It is recognized by its graceful aerial maneuvers, yet on land, it exhibits a certain awkwardness. This species is named in honor of the esteemed Swedish botanist Daniel Solander, and is alternatively known as Solander's Petrel.

Identification Tips

This bird can be identified by its large, robust build, which is characteristic of the species. In flight, it is notably graceful and agile, a stark contrast to its rather clumsy demeanor when grounded.

Distribution

The bird's breeding range is quite restricted, with colonies situated some 800 kilometers from the Australian mainland on Lord Howe Island, as well as on Philip Island.

Behaviour

The Providence Petrel displays a curious dichotomy in its behavior, with some populations being diurnal and others nocturnal. This variation may be attributed to differences in foraging locales or to historical predators that have since vanished.

Breeding

Breeding for the Providence Petrel is confined to two mountain tops and a small islet, making its reproductive success highly susceptible to environmental catastrophes.

Conservation Status

The Providence Petrel is currently classified as Least Concern. However, its conservation status is precarious due to its limited breeding sites, which places the species at significant risk from potential disasters. The current population is estimated at a mere 64,000 individuals. Predation by the endangered Lord Howe rail, burrow flooding, rat predation, and accidental drowning in longline fishing gear are the primary threats to its survival.