White-vented Storm Petrel

Oceanites gracilis

The White-vented Storm Petrel is a small seabird found in the southern oceans. It has a blackish-brown plumage with a distinctive white rump and underwings. This species is known for its graceful flight patterns as it skims the ocean surface in search of food. White-vented Storm Petrels breed in colonies on remote islands and spend most of their lives at sea. They are highly adapted for a life on the wing, with a keen sense of smell to locate prey and the ability to drink seawater. These birds are often seen in association with oceanic storms, where they are believed to forage for food brought to the surface by turbulent weather.

Habitat: Open ocean