Storm Petrels are small birds, around 20 cm., that live far from shore, nest on remote islands, and skip along the ocean surface picking up floating food items. Oceanodroma are found in northern hemisphere ocaens. Some are active at night at both the nest and when feeding, for one reason to avoid predators. |
White rump extends to flanks. |
Unlike most Storm Petrels, breeds on mainland Peru and perhaps Chile. Also called Ringed Storm Petrel for distinctive ring around neck. |
May or may not have a V-shaped white band across rump that does not reach the tail. Note forked tail. |
Similar to Black Storm Petrel but non-migratory and a bit browner. |
Northern migrant to tropical waters (Sept. to April), and a bit larger than other storm petrels at 22 cm.. |
Smallest storm petrel at around 16 cm.. Dark brown with no white rump, similar in coloration to larger Black Storm Petrel, or Markham's Storm Petrel. |
Note white rump extends into tail. |