Birds
File:Fluttering shearwater (Puffinus gavia) in flight off Tiritiri Matangi.jpg

Fluttering Shearwater

Fluttering Shearwater

100
1 week ago
Spotted
The Fluttering Shearwater is a common New Zealand seabird known for its erratic and energetic flight pattern, characterized by rapid wing beats interspersed with short glides. It forms large feeding flocks and rafts on the water.
Where to spot
Endemic to New Zealand waters, breeding on islands around the North Island and Cook Strait. Disperses throughout the seas surrounding New Zealand and occasionally to southeastern Australia.
How to spot
Look for its distinctive flight close to the water, characterized by rapid, shallow wing beats. Often seen in large, dense rafts on the sea surface. Observe from coastal vantage points or on boat trips within its range.
When to spot
Can be observed year-round in suitable coastal and offshore waters around New Zealand. Breeding occurs from September to March, with birds more concentrated near colonies.
File:Fluttering shearwater (Puffinus gavia) in flight off Tiritiri Matangi.jpg
File:Puffinus gavia-pattering.jpg
File:Puffinus gavia.jpg
File:Puffinus gavia - SE Tasmania.jpg
File:Fluttering shearwater (Puffinus gavia) in flight off Tiritiri Matangi.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Puffinus gavia-pattering.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Puffinus gavia.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Puffinus gavia - SE Tasmania.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Its name aptly describes its flight, which is notably more 'fluttering' and less rigidly shearing than many other shearwater species, making it easier to distinguish.
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Spotted

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343 (Seen in the last 3 months)
Last spotted
1 week ago

Monthly observations

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Stephan
Stephan
3 months ago
Fluttering Shearwater
Spotted Fluttering Shearwater
Spotted Fluttering Shearwater
+100
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Stephan
Stephan
3 months ago
Fluttering Shearwater
Spotted Fluttering Shearwater
Spotted Fluttering Shearwater
+100
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Stephan
Stephan
4 months ago
Fluttering Shearwater
Spotted Fluttering Shearwater
Spotted Fluttering Shearwater
+100
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Stephan
Stephan
5 months ago
Fluttering Shearwater
Spotted Fluttering Shearwater
Spotted Fluttering Shearwater
+100
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Stephan
Stephan
6 months ago
Fluttering Shearwater
Spotted Fluttering Shearwater
Spotted Fluttering Shearwater
+115
Lifer
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