Townsend's Shearwater is a critically endangered seabird endemic to Mexico's Revillagigedo Islands. This medium-sized shearwater exhibits a classic dark-above, white-below plumage pattern, but its rarity makes it a significant sighting.
Where to spot
Pelagic in the eastern Pacific Ocean, primarily off the coast of Mexico, particularly around the Revillagigedo Islands where it breeds. Its range extends northwards to Baja California during non-breeding periods.
How to spot
Requires dedicated pelagic excursions in its specific range. Look for its distinctive shearwater flight, with stiff wings gliding close to the water. Identification can be challenging due to its similarity to other dark-and-white shearwaters; focus on size and flight style.
When to spot
Breeding occurs from late autumn through spring. At sea, it can be observed year-round within its range, though sightings are rare due to its low numbers.
Where to spot
Pelagic in the eastern Pacific Ocean, primarily off the coast of Mexico, particularly around the Revillagigedo Islands where it breeds. Its range extends northwards to Baja California during non-breeding periods.
How to spot
Requires dedicated pelagic excursions in its specific range. Look for its distinctive shearwater flight, with stiff wings gliding close to the water. Identification can be challenging due to its similarity to other dark-and-white shearwaters; focus on size and flight style.
When to spot
Breeding occurs from late autumn through spring. At sea, it can be observed year-round within its range, though sightings are rare due to its low numbers.
It faces severe threats from introduced predators like rats and cats on its breeding islands, highlighting the vulnerability of island-nesting seabirds.
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