Herald petrel facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Herald petrel |
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| Plate 67 from Godman's 'Monograph of the Petrels.' | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Pterodroma
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| Species: |
heraldica
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The Herald petrel (Pterodroma heraldica) is a type of seabird. It belongs to a group of birds called gadfly petrels. This bird is about 35 to 39 centimeters (14 to 15 inches) long. Its wings can spread out to about 88 to 102 centimeters (35 to 40 inches) wide.
These petrels can look different in color. Some are dark, some are light, and some are in between. They mostly live in the southern Pacific Ocean. They have also been seen near Hawaii.
Contents
Where Herald Petrels Live and Nest
Herald petrels build their nests on islands and atolls in the ocean. They like to nest on cliff ledges, high ridges, or rocky slopes.
Threats to Young Petrels
On some islands, young petrels and their eggs are in danger. Wild feral cats and rats can harm them.
Protecting the Herald Petrel
The Herald petrel is considered a vulnerable species. This means it is at risk of disappearing. This is because their homes are being destroyed. Also, they only breed in a few places. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species keeps track of animals like this.
Amazing Journeys and Discoveries
In May 2007, a Herald petrel was seen near Mauritius in the Indian Ocean. This bird had been tagged on Raine Island in 1984. This discovery showed that these birds can live for a long time. It also showed they can travel very far.
New Breeding Sites
Scientists recently found Herald petrels breeding on Round Island. This island is 22 kilometers (14 miles) north of Mauritius. Before this, it was not known that these birds bred there.
In August 2017, something exciting happened on Raine Island. Staff from Queensland Parks and Wildlife Services (QPWS) saw a Herald petrel chick. They had seen an adult petrel with an egg in June 2017. This was the first time a Herald petrel chick was seen on Raine Island in 30 years. Raine Island is the only place in Australia where Herald petrels are known to breed.
See also
In Spanish: Petrel heraldo para niños
