Spectacled Petrel

The spectacled petrel is a striking seabird, cloaked predominantly in black plumage. It is distinguished by the distinctive white bands encircling its eyes, reminiscent of spectacles, which give rise to its name. This large petrel, approximately 55 cm in length, is further characterized by a yellow bill. It is known to live an average of 26.4 years, a testament to its resilience in the wild.

Identification Tips

When observing the spectacled petrel, look for its sizeable black body contrasted with the unique white eye-rings. The yellow bill is another key feature to help distinguish it from similar species. Its flight is typically strong and direct, with deep wingbeats.

Habitat

This pelagic bird is most at home soaring over the open waters of the South Atlantic Ocean, ranging broadly between 30° and 50° south latitude.

Distribution

The spectacled petrel has a foraging range that spans from southern Brazil to southern Africa. However, it is a breeding endemic to Inaccessible Island, part of the Tristan da Cunha group, where it nests on the high western plateau.

Behaviour

The spectacled petrel is a solitary nester, digging burrows in the soft banks of streams or in boggy areas on Inaccessible Island. It is also known to be a proficient forager, covering vast stretches of ocean in search of sustenance.

Breeding

Breeding spectacled petrels excavate burrows where they lay a single white egg, averaging 81 mm by 55 mm in size and weighing about 130 g. These burrows provide shelter and protection for their offspring during the early stages of development.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the spectacled petrel is quite varied, including cephalopods, fish, and crustaceans, which they capture from the ocean's surface or just below.

Conservation status

Once critically endangered, the spectacled petrel has shown signs of population recovery. It is currently classified as vulnerable, with an estimated population between 31,000 and 45,000 individuals. The species' numbers are on an upward trend, but it still faces threats from longline fisheries, which can inadvertently ensnare and drown the birds. Conservation efforts include ongoing population surveys, adoption of best-practice mitigation measures in fisheries, and the protection of its breeding grounds on Inaccessible Island, a designated World Heritage Site.