Storm Petrel
Hydrobates pelagicus
The Storm Petrel is a small, pelagic bird that can be seen in British waters, particularly in the summer months, although it is a rare sight inshore and mostly observed from coastal headlands or on pelagic trips. It is a migrant species that breeds on rocky islands and coastal areas, with the British Isles being on the northern edge of its range.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Storm Petrel in the field.
The Storm Petrel can be identified by its dark brown plumage, white rump, and distinctive wing shape, with a square tail and long, pointed wings. Its small size and rapid, fluttering wingbeats are also distinctive.
The Storm Petrel is smaller than a Starling, measuring around 18-20 cm in length.
The male Storm Petrel has a dark brown back, wings, and crown, with a white rump and undertail coverts, and a pale brown breast and belly, with no significant seasonal variation.
The female Storm Petrel is similar to the male, with no notable differences in plumage.
The Storm Petrel's call is a high-pitched, chattering "tik-tik-tik" or "chip-chip-chip", often heard at night or in the early morning.
Storm Petrels are pelagic birds that feed on small fish, crustaceans, and plankton, picking them from the surface of the water while in flight, and are known for their rapid, fluttering wingbeats and low, skimming flight style.
The Storm Petrel can be confused with the Leach's Storm Petrel, but can be distinguished by its darker plumage, white rump, and more rapid wingbeats, as well as its smaller size and more compact shape.
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