Herald Petrel

The Herald petrel, a seabird of the gadfly petrels family, is a medium-sized bird with a length of 35–39 cm and a wingspan stretching between 88 and 102 cm. Exhibiting a variety of color morphs, individuals may appear dark, light, or somewhere in between.

Identification Tips

To identify the Herald petrel, look for its size and the range of color morphs. The wingspan is quite notable, and the variations in plumage can assist in distinguishing it from similar species.

Habitat

These petrels favor oceanic islands and atolls for nesting, preferring cliff ledges, ridges, or rocky slopes as their breeding grounds.

Distribution

The Herald petrel's range encompasses the south Pacific Ocean and extends to the Indian Ocean. Notably, it has been observed in Hawaii and on Raine Island, the latter being the only known breeding site in Australia.

Conservation status

Globally, the Herald petrel is classified as "Least Concern" by the IUCN. However, in Australia, it is listed as critically endangered under national and Queensland legislation. Despite the absence of a current recovery plan, the species benefits from a high level of protection and management of threats, particularly on Raine Island. A 2018 study highlighted the Herald petrel as one of the Australian birds most at risk of extinction.