Cape Verde Shearwater

The Cape Verde shearwater, known locally as cagarra, is a medium-large member of the seabird family Procellariidae. This species is characterized by its slim, dark bill and a more angular body compared to its relatives. The head and upperparts are notably darker than those of Cory's shearwater, and its flight pattern is distinct with stiffer and more rapid wing beats.

Identification Tips

When observing the Cape Verde shearwater, look for a smaller, slimmer bird with a more shearwater-like flight than Cory's shearwater. The darker plumage on the head and upperparts, along with the slim, dark bill, are key features for identification.

Habitat

These shearwaters are pelagic, spending most of their life at sea. They come ashore only to breed, nesting in cliff hollows, on offshore rocks, and under large boulders within the Cape Verde archipelago.

Distribution

Endemic to the Cape Verde Islands, the largest breeding colonies are found on the islands of Brava, Branco, and Raso. While their movements at sea are not thoroughly documented, they are often seen around the islands during the breeding season. Post-breeding dispersal has led to sightings in the upwelling zones of Senegalese waters and occasionally as far afield as the South Atlantic and the eastern coast of North America.

Behaviour

The mature Cape Verde shearwaters return to their breeding colonies after a three-month absence at sea, arriving in late February and March. They exhibit strong fidelity to their nesting sites, where they engage in the annual ritual of raising their young.

Breeding

A single egg is laid by the female, and both parents partake in the incubation from May to July. The chicks fledge from late September to November, after which all individuals return to the sea until the following breeding season.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Cape Verde shearwater consists of small fish, squid, and other marine organisms, all of which are foraged exclusively at sea.

Conservation status

With an estimated population of around 20,000 mature individuals, the Cape Verde shearwater is currently classified as Near Threatened. The species faces threats from over-harvesting of chicks by local fishermen, with an estimated 5,000 birds taken annually from the colonies on Branco and Raso. Conservation efforts are in place to protect this unique species, but challenges remain.