ATLANTIC PETREL Pterodroma incerta

ATLANTIC PETREL Pterodroma incerta 

Schlegel’s Petrel
L 43–44 cm, WS 104 cm.

IDENTIFICATION 

Vagrant from S Atlantic (breeds Tristan da Cunha group). Large Pterodroma, slightly larger than Sooty Shearwater, with flight action typical of the genus (see Fea’s). Often follows ships. Dark underwing which contrasts with mainly white underbody recalls Soft-plumaged, but unlikely to be confused except at very long range. Dark hood and vent contrasting with white belly distinguish it from Fea’s or Zino’s and also from smaller Bulwer’s and Jouanin’s (but note that worn individuals can show whitish throat, greyish sides to face and whitish collar across nape, making separation from Fea’s or Zino’s less straightforward). See also vagrant Herald Petrel P. arminjoniana in Appendix.

VOICE 

Silent at sea.
 

STATUS/HABITAT 

Vagrant (Eilat, Israel). Pelagic away from breeding colonies.