Order: Procellariiformes
Family: Procellariidae
The Pintado Petrel, also known as the Cape Petrel, is a medium-sized seabird famous for its bold black-and-white patterned feathers. Commonly seen gliding low over the waves, it is a familiar sight in the cold southern seas, including the waters off Patagonia. These agile fliers are highly adapted to life at sea, rarely coming to land except to breed. Their strong sense of smell helps them locate food over vast ocean expanses. During the breeding season, they nest on rocky cliffs and islands, often forming large, noisy colonies. The Pintado Petrel is an important part of the marine ecosystem, feeding on a variety of oceanic prey and serving as a food source for larger predators.
Habitat
Open southern oceans, especially near Antarctic and subantarctic islands, and coastal waters off southern South America.
Foraging
Feeds mainly at the ocean surface, picking up krill, fish, and squid, often scavenging around fishing vessels.
