Order: Procellariiformes
Family: Procellariidae
The Great Shearwater is a large, graceful seabird recognized by its dark cap, white underparts, and distinctive flight pattern, gliding low over ocean waves. It breeds in dense colonies on remote islands in the South Atlantic, such as Tristan da Cunha and Nightingale Island. After breeding, it undertakes an impressive migration northward, crossing the equator to reach the North Atlantic, where it spends the austral winter. This species is highly pelagic, rarely seen near land except at breeding sites. Its loud, cackling calls are mostly heard at night in breeding colonies. The Great Shearwater is an adept flier, using dynamic soaring to cover vast distances with minimal effort. It is often seen in large flocks, sometimes following ships or associating with other seabirds. Though not currently threatened, it faces risks from fisheries bycatch and plastic pollution.
Habitat
Open ocean, especially cold and temperate waters; nests on remote, grassy islands in the South Atlantic.
Foraging
Feeds mainly by plunge-diving and surface-seizing, taking fish, squid, and crustaceans, often following ships or marine predators.
