Hydrobates

Hydrobates is a genus of seabirds belonging to the family Hydrobatidae, commonly known as storm petrels. The genus includes 17 species, all of which are small to medium-sized birds with a slender body, long wings, and a short tail. They are found in the Northern Hemisphere, with a few species also occurring in the Southern Hemisphere. Hydrobates species are known for their ability to fly in strong winds and storms, hence their common name. They are often found in coastal areas and are important indicators of ocean health due to their sensitivity to pollution and changes in ocean conditions. The genus is further divided into two subgenera, Hydrobates and Pelagodroma, based on differences in their plumage and behavior. Hydrobates species are generally monogamous and nest in burrows or crevices on cliffs or islands. They feed on small fish and squid, which they catch by diving from the surface of the water. The genus Hydrobates is of significant interest to ornithologists and conservationists due to the various threats they face, including habitat loss, pollution, and climate change.