Monteiro Storm Petrel

By 03/12/2020Birds

Monteiro Storm Petrel is apparently an endemic species of the archipelago of the Azores. The species is named after the biologist Luis Monteiro, who was the first to notice morphological and acoustic differences between the two seasonal populations breeding in the Azores (Monteiro vs Madeiran Storm Petrels).

CHARACTERISTICS

  • Latin name: Oceanodroma monteiroi
  • Order: Procellariiformes
  • Family: Hydrobatidae
  • Length: 34-57 cm
  • Weight: 35-56 gr
  • Wingspan: 45-48 cm
  • IUCN Status: Vulnerable

 


Source: Map Lynx Edicions/BirdLife International

DESCRIPTION

Important: Birds species have different identifying features depending on sex, age and season.

Eye color: Black
Beak: Thin black beak
Leg color: Black, dark brown
Feather colors: Black, brown, white


Photo courtesy of PH Silva

 

LIFE HISTORY

DIET

Monteiro Storm Petrels feed on small fish and squids (e.g., Teuthida spp.). They forage in the local seas all year around, possibly near the breeding areas. They feed at the surface, and can forage underwater by performing very shallow dives.

REPRODUCTION

The reproduction occurs between May and September, in contrast to the Madeiran Storm Petrel, which on these islands lays eggs between October and December. The incubation of a single egg (white) lasts at around 44-47 days, incubated by both parents. The juveniles will reach the fledgling stage, first flight, at around 60 days, by early October.

 

VOCAL BEHAVIOR

Monteiro Storm Petrels vocalize from within burrow a throaty purring punctuated at regular intervals by short and sharp wicka notes.

 

 

 

Illustration by Hilary Burn.

Marylou

About Marylou

Marylou is a Marine Biologist and Master in Oceanography. She is one of our Marine Wildlife Guide and is responsible for Science Education at TERRA AZUL. Originally from France, she studied in Canada and Belgium and loves being out to sea to share her knowledge with you.

Your thoughts on this?