The Great-winged Petrel, also known as the Gray-faced Petrel, is a seabird of the far southern oceans. They breed in scattered locations throughout the southern oceans, from the coasts of southern Australia and northern New Zealand, to islands in the south Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Non-breeding birds wander throughout the southern hemisphere, but they have occasionally been found in the northern hemisphere as well. North American records consist of a handful of sightings off the coast of California.
Habitat
Found in scattered areas in the southern oceans during the breeding season, using coastline ridges and scattered island groups as nesting colonies. Pelagic at other times of the year.
Diet
Feeds mostly on squid, but will also take small fish and crustaceans.
Behavior
Soars over the ocean's surface, dipping down to grab prey items from the ocean's surface or just below.
Nesting
Nesting typically occurs near the base of a small shrub or other plant, or between tree roots. A single egg is laid, with an incubation period of about 8 weeks. Both parents help feed and tend to the young after hatching.
Song
Has a high-pitched, shrieking call.
Migration
Many birds are found near nesting colonies even outside of the breeding season, but others wander widely across the southern oceans.
Interactive eBird map
Click here to access an interactive eBird map of Great-winged Petrel sightings
Similar Species
Similar to several shearwater species, including Sooty Shearwater , Flesh-footed Shearwater , and Short-tailed Shearwater .
Conservation Status
There are indications that global populations are decreasing, but at this time there are no serious threats to the species. The IUCN lists the Great-winged Petrel as a species of "Least Concern".
Further Information
- eBird - Great-winged Petrel
- Audubon Field Guide - Great-winged Petrel
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology - All About Birds: Great-winged Petrel
2) P lanet of Birds - Great-winged Petrel
3) W hatBird - Great-winged Petrel
Photo Information
Photo taken by J.J. Harrison - May 27th, 2012 - Near Tasmania - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License
