Great Shearwater

The Great Shearwater (Ardenna gravis) is a large seabird in the Procellariidae family, known for its long-distance migrations and graceful gliding flight over the ocean.

• Size: About 45–56 cm (18–22 in) in length

• Wingspan: Approximately 105–122 cm (41–48 in)

• Weight: 700–950 grams (1.5–2.1 lbs)

• Plumage:

  • Dark brown upperparts

  • White underparts with a dark belly patch

  • Distinctive dark cap and white nape

  • Dark, hooked bill and pinkish legs

• Breeding: Sub-Antarctic islands (e.g., Tristan da Cunha, Nightingale Island)

• Range: After breeding, they migrate north across the Atlantic, often seen off the east coast of North America and Europe during boreal summer.

• One of the few seabirds to migrate northward after breeding (opposite to most birds).

• Travels in a circular pattern around the Atlantic Ocean each year.

• Feeds on fish, squid, and crustaceans.

• Known to follow fishing vessels and scavenge offal.

• Nests in burrows or crevices on remote islands.

• Lays a single egg per year.

• Both parents share incubation and feeding duties.

• IUCN Red List: Least Concern

• Populations are stable, but threats include bycatch in longline fisheries and pollution.