Birds

Rapa Shearwater

Rapa Shearwater

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The Rapa Shearwater is a small, rarely seen seabird breeding on islands in the South Pacific, particularly around Rapa Iti. Its pelagic nature and remote breeding sites make it one of the less studied shearwater species.
Where to spot
Known to breed primarily on Rapa Iti and possibly other islands in the Austral Islands group of French Polynesia. It disperses into the central South Pacific Ocean during non-breeding periods.
How to spot
Observation opportunities are extremely limited, typically requiring specialized research expeditions or extensive pelagic birding in its remote South Pacific range. Look for its small size and typical shearwater flight over the open ocean.
When to spot
Breeding occurs during the austral summer (roughly November to May). Pelagic observations are possible year-round within its oceanic range, though difficult due to its elusive nature.
This species was only formally described in 2018, having previously been considered a subspecies of Newell's Shearwater, highlighting the ongoing discovery in seabird taxonomy.
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