Bird species profile
White-chinned Petrel
Procellaria aequinoctialis
- Order
- Procellariiformes
- Family
- Procellariidae
About the species
The White-chinned Petrel is a large, dark seabird with a characteristic white patch on its chin, though some individuals may lack this marking. It is a powerful flier, often seen gliding low over the ocean in the Southern Hemisphere, including the waters off Patagonia. This species breeds on remote sub-Antarctic islands, nesting in burrows or crevices. Outside the breeding season, it ranges widely across the southern oceans. The White-chinned Petrel is known for its loud, cackling calls at breeding colonies. Its population is declining, mainly due to accidental capture in fishing gear, making it a focus for international conservation efforts.
Habitat
Open southern oceans and sub-Antarctic islands, especially near breeding colonies and productive waters off Patagonia.
Foraging
Feeds mainly at sea, scavenging and catching fish, squid, and crustaceans, often following fishing vessels.
