Soft-plumaged Petrel

Pterodroma mollis

The Soft-plumaged Petrel (Pterodroma mollis) is a medium-sized seabird with a wingspan of approximately 78-84 cm. It has a predominantly grey and white plumage with a dark 'M' pattern on its upperwings. This species is known for its graceful and agile flight, often gliding low over the water surface. Soft-plumaged Petrels are pelagic birds, spending most of their lives at sea and only returning to land to breed. They are primarily found in the Southern Ocean, nesting on remote islands and feeding on fish, squid, and crustaceans. Despite their wide distribution, their population is declining due to threats such as invasive species on breeding islands and accidental bycatch in fishing gear.

Habitat: Pelagic ocean waters