Galapagos Petrel

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Not yet spotted on Fladder

The Galapagos Petrel is an endangered gadfly petrel endemic to the Galapagos Islands. It breeds in highland forests and feeds in the surrounding waters.

Where to spot

Breeds on the high-altitude slopes of a few islands in the Galapagos Archipelago (e.g., Floreana, San Cristobal, Santa Cruz, Isabela). Forages in the surrounding waters of the eastern Pacific.

How to spot

Look for its dark grey-brown upperparts, white underparts, and dark underwing. Distinguish from Hawaiian Petrel (P. sandwichensis) by subtle plumage and call differences. Best observed from boats during pelagic tours around the Galapagos, or very rarely from land at night near breeding sites.

When to spot

Breeding occurs from April to December. Can be observed at sea during these months around the Galapagos. Nocturnal at colonies.

Where to spot

Breeds on the high-altitude slopes of a few islands in the Galapagos Archipelago (e.g., Floreana, San Cristobal, Santa Cruz, Isabela). Forages in the surrounding waters of the eastern Pacific.

How to spot

When to spot

Breeding occurs from April to December. Can be observed at sea during these months around the Galapagos. Nocturnal at colonies.

Credits: Wikimedia Commons

This species is unique among petrels for nesting in burrows dug in the humid highland forests of the Galapagos volcanoes, rather than coastal cliffs or low-lying islands.

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