Soft-plumaged petrel facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Soft-plumaged petrel |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Ventral plumage. | |
 |
|
| Dorsal plumage. Photographed on pelagic waters near Albany, Western Australia. | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Pterodroma
|
| Species: |
mollis
|
The soft-plumaged petrel (Pterodroma mollis) is a type of seabird known for its soft, grey feathers. It belongs to a group of birds called petrels, which spend most of their lives flying over the ocean. These birds are part of the Procellariidae family, which includes many different kinds of petrels and shearwaters.
Where Soft-plumaged Petrels Live
This seabird makes its nests on islands in the Southern Hemisphere. You can find them breeding on places like Tristan da Cunha and Gough Island. They also nest on the Prince Edward Islands, Crozet Islands, and Macquarie Island.
Another important breeding spot is the Antipodes Islands in New Zealand. A small number also breed in the Maatsuyker Island Group in southern Tasmania.
When it's not breeding season, these petrels spread out across the ocean. They can travel as far as eastern South America, reaching north to Brazil. They also fly to southern Africa and Australia. Sometimes, a few birds might wander far from their usual areas. They have been seen in places like Israel, Norway, and Jordan.
What Soft-plumaged Petrels Look Like
The soft-plumaged petrel is a medium-sized bird. Its feathers are a mix of dark grey and white. Its wings are narrow, and its tail is pointed, which helps identify it when it's flying.
The bird has a dark grey head. You can see bright white feathers on its cheeks and throat. There are also small white spots on its forehead. A clear dark patch around its eye stands out.
The underside of the petrel is mostly white. However, the feathers under its wings turn dark grey. Its black beak is about 25 to 32 millimeters long. It has a sharp hook at the end, which is useful for catching food. The bird's legs are pink, but the outer parts of its feet and toes are black.
Both male and female petrels make sounds. They are quite noisy, making medium-pitched moans and high-pitched squeaks.
See also
In Spanish: Petrel suave para niños
