The Ashy Storm-Petrel is a California specialty, with a very limited breeding range on several island groups off of the coast. Non-breeding birds only disperse short distances, with most birds still found around the California coast. Total populations of the Ashy Storm-Petrel are likely no more than 10,000 birds. They are considered an "Endangered" species by the IUCN, and California Fish & Game lists them as a species of "Special Concern".
Habitat
During the breeding season, found on rocky offshore islands with suitable nesting sites. Non-breeding birds are found just off the continental shelf off of California, over cool ocean currents, or sometimes closer to shore.
Diet
Feeds mostly on small fish and crustaceans, as well as other small ocean creatures.
Behavior
Forages by flying low over the water or hovering, grabbing food items from flight. They will also sometimes sit on the water's surface and grab food items while swimming.
Nesting
The Ashy Storm-Petrel nests in cavities, but doesn't excavate its own burrow. They will use a burrow built by another animal, or nest in cavities in rocks or under other protected areas. The female lays a single egg directly on the ground, and both parents help to incubate it. Upon hatching, both parents help to feed the nestling.
Interactive eBird Map
Click to access an interactive eBird Map of Ashy Storm Petrel sightings
Song
Usually silent away from the breeding grounds. On the breeding gourds, they soft rattling call that rises and falls in pitch.
Migration
Breeds on a few islands off of coastal California. Outside of the breeding season, they may disperse relatively short distances, over much of the California coast down to Baja California.
Similar Species
In range, most similar to the Black Storm-Petrel, Leach's Storm-Petrel.
Status
Populations of Ashy Storm-Petrels are small and are in decline. They are only found as breeding birds in a few island groups off the California Coast. The IUCN lists the Ashy Storm-Petrel as an "Endangered" species.
Further Information
- eBird - Ashy Storm-Petrel
- Audubon Field Guide - Ashy Storm-Petrel
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology - All About Birds: Ashy Storm-Petrel
Photo Information
Photo taken by Don Loarie - Photo licensed under Creative Commons Attribution NonCommerical ShareAlike 2.0 Generic License.
