European Storm Petrel

Pelagodroma marina

The European Storm Petrel is a small seabird with a wingspan of 37-39 cm and a weight of 20-30 grams. It has a blackish-brown plumage, a white rump, and a slightly forked tail. These birds are known for their graceful, fluttering flight over the open sea, often skimming the waves. They breed in colonies on remote islands and cliffs, and are highly adapted for a life at sea, with webbed feet for swimming and a keen sense of smell to locate food. They primarily feed on small fish and plankton. Despite their small size, they are capable of long-distance migrations, traveling thousands of kilometers between breeding and wintering grounds.

Habitat: Open sea, remote islands, and cliffs