Wilson's Storm Petrel
The Wilson's Storm Petrel Oceanites oceanicus is a small seabird native to the Southern Ocean. It is a small and agile bird, known for its all-black plumage and its unique feeding habits. The Wilson's Storm Petrel is a "paddling" forager, using its feet to "walk" on the surface of the water while it feeds on plankton and small fish.
The Wilson's Storm Petrel is a long-distance migratory bird, traveling for thousands of miles in a single year.
The Wilson's Storm Petrel is a true marvel of adaptation, and its presence is a reminder of the incredible life that exists in the Southern Ocean.
Wilson's Storm Petrel
Classification
Aves > Procellariiformes > Oceanitidae > Oceanites > O. oceanicus
Native To
Conservation Status
Average Height
5 - 6 inches
(13 - 15 cm)
Average Weight
1 - 2 oz
(28 - 57 g)
Average Life Span
10 - 15 years
Gestation Period
35 - 40 days
Did You Know?
The Wilson's Storm Petrel is one of the most abundant seabirds in the world.
They are known for their unique feeding behavior, appearing to "walk" on water as they pick food from the surface.
These small birds undertake one of the longest migratory journeys of any bird, breeding in Antarctica and then flying to the northern hemisphere for the non-breeding season.
They have a keen sense of smell, which they use to locate food sources like krill and small fish, even in the vast ocean.
The Wilson's Storm Petrel often follows ships, feeding on disturbed marine life.
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