Pink-footed shearwater

The pink-footed shearwater is a seabird measuring approximately 48 cm in length with a wingspan of 109 cm. This bird exhibits various color morphs, ranging from darker to lighter shades. It belongs to the Hemipuffinus group, together with the flesh-footed shearwater, and may be closely related to the great shearwater. Some scientists even hypothesize that these large shearwaters could be classified under the genus Ardenna.

This seabird inhabits the open ocean, specifically the Pacific. It nests on offshore islands such as Mocha Island in Chile. After the breeding season, it migrates across the equator to subarctic Pacific waters. You might spot one along the West Coast of the United States during the warmer months.

The pink-footed shearwater's diet primarily consists of fish, squid, and crustaceans. These birds nest in burrows on forested slopes and do so in colonies. Unfortunately, their populations are declining. Predators such as rats and cats, introduced to their nesting areas, pose a significant threat. Additionally, they are sometimes inadvertently caught in fishing gear, which also contributes to their decline.