Order: Procellariiformes
Family: Procellariidae
The Southern Fulmar is a robust seabird with a pale gray back, white underparts, and a distinctive dark eye patch. Adapted to cold southern waters, it is a common sight in the Southern Ocean and around the coasts of Patagonia, especially during the austral summer. These birds are highly pelagic outside the breeding season, spending most of their lives at sea. Their strong, stiff-winged flight allows them to glide effortlessly over waves, often in windy conditions. Southern Fulmars breed in large colonies on rocky cliffs, laying a single egg per season. Their call is a harsh, cackling sound, especially noticeable at nesting sites. They are well-adapted to the harsh, windy environments of the southern latitudes and play an important role in the marine ecosystem as both predator and scavenger.
Habitat
Open southern oceans, coastal cliffs, and islands, especially near Antarctica and southern South America.
Foraging
Feeds at sea on fish, squid, krill, and carrion, often scavenging behind fishing vessels.