Scopoli's Shearwater

The Scopoli's shearwater, Calonectris diomedea, is a member of the petrel family Procellariidae. This seabird is characterized by its brownish-grey upperparts with darker wings, and a predominantly white underside. A pale yellow bill adorned with a dark tip is a distinctive feature, and the legs and feet are of a pale flesh hue. Both sexes share a similar appearance, though males are marginally larger on average.

Identification Tips

When identifying Scopoli's shearwater, look for the lighter brown fringe on most feathers of the brownish-grey upperparts and the darker brown wings. The underparts are mainly white, with a brown border that is most pronounced along the trailing edge of the wing. The bill is pale yellow with a notable dark patch near the tip. In flight, observe the white on the primary feathers at the wingtip, particularly on the outermost large feather (P10), which is more extensive than in Cory's shearwater.

Habitat

Scopoli's shearwater is a pelagic bird that breeds on rocky islands and steep coasts within the Mediterranean Sea. It is well-adapted to life at sea, only coming ashore to breed.

Distribution

This species breeds across the Mediterranean, from the Chafarinas Islands near Morocco to the Dodecanese near Turkey. The largest colony is found on Zembra Island off the Tunisian coast. After the breeding season, these birds migrate to the Atlantic, returning to the Mediterranean at the end of February.

Behaviour

Scopoli's shearwaters are migratory, traveling to the Atlantic after breeding and foraging in regions associated with major upwellings. They are known to follow whales and tuna to feed on scraps and small fish, and will also scavenge from fishing vessels.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of Scopoli's shearwater are distinct from those of Cory's shearwater, which helped in the species' taxonomic separation.

Breeding

Breeding occurs on Mediterranean islands, with the largest colony on Zembra Island. The birds nest on rocky outcrops and steep coastlines, returning annually to the same sites.

Similar Species

Scopoli's shearwater is similar in appearance to Cory's shearwater, but can be distinguished by the more extensive white on the primary feathers of the wingtip. The Cape Verde shearwater is smaller and significantly darker above.

Diet and Feeding

The diet consists mainly of small fish, cephalopods, and crustaceans. Scopoli's shearwater feeds by skimming the water's surface or by surface seizing, and only rarely plunges completely underwater.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies Scopoli's shearwater as Least Concern, indicating a stable population at present. However, ongoing monitoring is essential to ensure this status is maintained.