Barau's Petrel

The Barau's petrel, a medium-sized gadfly petrel from the Procellariidae family, is a remarkable seabird with a length of approximately 40 cm. It boasts a striking plumage with white undersides and a white forehead, contrasting sharply with its dark upper parts. The wings and back display a moderately distinct "M" pattern, while its bill is a deep black.

Identification Tips

When observing Barau's petrel, look for the characteristic "M" pattern across the wings and back, which is a key feature for identification. The contrast between the white underparts and the darker upper parts is also a helpful distinguishing mark. The black bill is another feature to note.

Habitat

This species has a preference for high-altitude forested areas for breeding, particularly on the island of Réunion, where it digs burrows under the forest canopy.

Distribution

Barau's petrel has a range that spans the Indian Ocean, from Réunion to Western Australia and Indonesia. The majority of the population is found on Réunion, with a single nest recorded on the island of Rodrigues.

Behaviour

Barau's petrels are highly pelagic when at sea, engaging in surface-seizing and plunge diving to catch small fish. They are known to feed in association with other seabird species.

Breeding

The breeding colonies of Barau's petrel are unusually located far inland and at high elevations, around 2,400-2,700 meters above sea level. While the breeding biology is not extensively studied, it is inferred that they have a 55-day incubation period and chicks take about 100–120 days to fledge. Notably, these petrels return to their colonies during the day, utilizing thermal updrafts to conserve energy. Fledging occurs between November and February.

Conservation status

Barau's petrel is currently classified as an endangered species. Its restricted breeding range and past hunting pressures have contributed to its vulnerability. Although hunting has ceased and the population appears to be recovering, the species now faces threats from introduced predators and light pollution. Artificial lights disorient fledglings, leading to a significant number of them failing to reach the sea. Conservation efforts include rescuing disoriented chicks and releasing them at sea, as well as initiatives to reduce light pollution by shielding light sources.