Pterodroma phaeopygia
The Galapagos Petrel, *Pterodroma phaeopygia*, is a medium-sized, highly pelagic seabird distinguished by its dark greyish-brown upperparts and striking white underparts. Measuring 41-46 cm in length with a wingspan of 97-107 cm and weighing 340-400 grams, it exhibits a prominent dark cap that extends below the eye, a contrasting white forehead, and a distinctive 'W' or 'M' pattern across its upperwings, critical for identification at sea. As a member of the genus *Pterodroma*, known as gadfl...
Breeds in the humid highland forests and treeless volcanic slopes of specific Galapagos islands, typically above 300 meters elevation, utilizing areas of soft soil or volcanic ash. Spends the non-breeding season exclusively over the vast, open tropical eastern Pacific Ocean.
Feeds primarily on small fish (e.g., lanternfishes), squid, and crustaceans, typically captured by surface-seizing or dipping from the ocean's surface.
Galapagos Petrels exhibit a fascinating dual life, being strictly nocturnal at their breeding colonies to avoid predators, yet diurnal while foraging at sea. They are colonial breeders, returning to the same burrows year after year, forming strong, monogamous pair bonds. Nest construction involve...
The Galapagos Petrel is an endemic breeder to the Galapagos Islands, primarily nesting on the humid highlands of Santa Cruz, Floreana, Isabela, Santiago, and San Cristóbal. Breeding colonies are typically found at elevations ranging from 300 to 900 meters, though some may extend up to 1,500 meter...
Critically Endangered
- The Galapagos Petrel is a master of olfactory navigation, capable of locating its specific burrow in the dense, dark highland vegetation of its breeding colonies purely by smell. - Local Galapagueños sometimes refer to them as 'Pata Pegada' (web-footed) due to the appearance of their feet. - De...