Kermadec petrel

The Kermadec Petrel is a captivating bird of the Procellariidae family. Measuring approximately 38 cm in length and boasting a wingspan of 100 cm, this species is particularly notable for its polymorphism, presenting in light, dark, and intermediate color morphs.

Regarding its diet, the Kermadec Petrel primarily consumes squid, fish, and various other marine organisms. These birds breed across the Pacific Ocean, ranging from Lord Howe Island to the Juan Fernández Islands. Although a small breeding colony persists on Balls Pyramid, just west of Lord Howe Island, the birds are now rarely found breeding on the main islands.

At Balls Pyramid, the breeding season predominantly occurs in late summer, similar to other avian species in the Kermadec Islands. There is also a larger subspecies, P. n. juana, which nests on Round Island near Mauritius and may even hybridize with the Trindade Petrel.

The Kermadec Petrel is sometimes observed far from its typical range, occasionally appearing in locations such as Hawaii, Australia, and New Zealand. There have even been unconfirmed reports of sightings in the United States and the United Kingdom.

These birds are monogamous, usually raising one chick each year. The chick becomes independent in approximately 100 to 130 days. Interestingly, Kermadec Petrels exhibit a wide range of breeding times, with some colonies nesting from October to February and others from February to March.