Desertas Petrel

Pterodroma deserta

The Desertas Petrel (Pterodroma deserta) is a seabird species that belongs to the Procellariidae family. These birds are medium-sized, with a wingspan of around 90-100 cm. They have a distinctive dark plumage with a white belly and underwings. Desertas Petrels are known for their remarkable flying abilities, often gliding effortlessly over the open ocean for long distances. They are primarily pelagic, breeding on the Desertas Islands and foraging over the surrounding waters. These petrels are skilled foragers, feeding on fish, squid, and crustaceans. Due to their limited breeding range and potential threats from invasive species, the conservation status of the Desertas Petrel is currently listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN.

Habitat: Open ocean, Desertas Islands