Hydrobates hornbyi
The Ringed Storm Petrel, Hydrobates hornbyi, is a small, enigmatic seabird of the Hydrobatidae family, characterized by its distinctive plumage and pelagic lifestyle. Measuring 21-22 cm (8.3-8.7 in) in length with a wingspan of 43-46 cm (17-18 in) and weighing around 42-50g, it presents a dark gray upper body, a contrasting white rump, and pure white underparts. Its most striking field mark is the partial white 'ring' or collar that extends from the hindneck to the sides of the neck, setting ...
Exclusively pelagic, inhabiting cold, productive offshore waters of the Southeast Pacific. Presumed to breed on remote, arid offshore islands or coastal deserts, potentially far inland.
Feeds primarily on small crustaceans, such as euphausiids, small fish, squid, and fish larvae. Foraging occurs by snatching prey from the ocean surface.
The Ringed Storm Petrel exhibits a graceful, buoyant, and often erratic flight pattern, reminiscent of a butterfly, typically flying low over ocean swells. It forages by skimming the water's surface, often using a characteristic 'pattering' technique with its feet while hovering to snatch prey. D...
The Ringed Storm Petrel is distributed across the Southeast Pacific Ocean, primarily offshore from Peru and Chile. Its pelagic range extends north to Ecuador and Colombia, with rare records further north, and south along the Chilean coast. The species is largely an offshore inhabitant of the prod...
Near Threatened
- The breeding grounds of the Ringed Storm Petrel are considered one of the biggest mysteries in ornithology, having never been officially discovered or observed by scientists. - Despite its small size, this petrel undertakes extensive foraging trips over vast stretches of the open ocean. - Like ...