Pterodroma solandri
The Providence Petrel (Pterodroma solandri) is a medium-sized, highly pelagic seabird renowned for its uniform dark plumage and extensive trans-equatorial migration. Measuring approximately 40 cm (15.7 inches) in length with a wingspan of 100-115 cm (39-45 inches) and weighing 500-700 grams, it presents a generally sooty-brown to dark grey appearance, often with a subtle pale chin and a stout, dark bill featuring a distinct pale pinkish base. Its robust build and long, narrow wings are perfec...
Exclusively pelagic at sea, Providence Petrels breed on remote, mountainous oceanic islands, nesting in burrows on forested slopes or rocky crevices.
Primarily consumes cephalopods (squid) and small fish, occasionally crustaceans, obtained through surface-seizing and shallow-plunging.
Providence Petrels exhibit a distinctly nocturnal behavior at their breeding colonies, arriving and departing under the cover of darkness, likely to avoid aerial predators. During the day, they are highly pelagic, often seen soaring gracefully over open ocean. Their foraging strategy involves sur...
The Providence Petrel's breeding range is highly restricted, primarily confined to Lord Howe Island, Australia, particularly on the peaks of Mt Gower and Mt Lidgbird. Recent conservation efforts are aiding in its recolonization of Norfolk Island, where it was historically abundant but extirpated....
Near Threatened
- Named after Daniel Solander, a Swedish naturalist who accompanied Captain Cook on his first voyage around the world. - Early settlers on Lord Howe Island called it the 'Big Hill Muttonbird' due to its breeding on the island's highest peaks, Mt Gower and Mt Lidgbird. - This species undertakes on...