Band-rumped Storm Petrel

Identification

The band-rumped storm petrel is a small seabird measuring 19–21 cm in length with a wingspan of 43–46 cm and weighing 44–49 g. It is mainly brownish black in plumage and distinguished by an extensive white rump patch. At sea, it can be confused with Leach's storm petrel, but several field marks separate them: the band-rumped has a less deeply forked tail, a more linear or 'band-like' white rump (rather than the V-shaped or triangular pattern of Leach's), and exhibits a characteristic 'shearwater-like' flight style, whereas Leach's employs a more erratic, 'tern-like' action with longer, more angular wings.

Range & Habitat

This species breeds on islands across the warmer parts of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Atlantic breeding colonies are found on the Berlengas (off mainland Portugal), the Azores, Madeira, the Canary Islands, and Saint Helena. Pacific populations nest off eastern Japan, on Kauai and Hawaii, and throughout the Galápagos Islands. Recent reports suggest breeding has also begun on Mauna Loa volcano on the island of Hawaii. During the non-breeding season, the band-rumped storm petrel is strictly pelagic, spending its time at sea away from land.

Behaviour & Diet

Band-rumped storm petrels are highly specialised nocturnal visitors to their breeding colonies, coming ashore only under cover of darkness to avoid predation by gulls and diurnal raptors such as peregrines. They are so strictly nocturnal that they will avoid landing on clear, moonlit nights when visibility is high. The species nests in colonies in rock crevices close to the sea, with females laying a single white egg per breeding attempt. Their walking ability is limited to a short shuffle between burrow and sea, typical of petrels.

At sea, birds feed by surface-picking, carefully selecting invertebrates, small vertebrates, and occasionally carrion from the water. Recent taxonomic work has revealed the existence of cryptic populations that differ in breeding seasonality, vocalisation patterns, and moulting periods, suggesting potential hidden diversity within the species.

Best Time & Places to See It

To observe band-rumped storm petrels, visit their breeding islands during the breeding season, though sightings ashore are challenging owing to their strict nocturnal habits. The best opportunities for observation are from boats at sea near breeding colonies, particularly around the Azores, Madeira, the Canary Islands, and the Galápagos Islands. Those visiting Hawaiian islands such as Kauai may also encounter this species, particularly near coastal breeding sites.

Photography Tips

Photographing band-rumped storm petrels is difficult due to their small size, nocturnal behaviour at breeding sites, and ocean habitat. The most practical approach is pelagic seabird photography from boats operating near breeding colonies, where birds are more likely to be encountered at sea during daylight hours. The extensive white rump is a key field mark to capture, as it distinguishes the species from similar petrels. Fast film speeds and image stabilisation are essential for capturing these fast-moving, small seabirds on open water.