fulmarus

Fulmarus is a genus of seabirds in the family Procellariidae, commonly referred to as fulmars. They are medium-sized petrels with stout bodies, long narrow wings, and tubular nostrils characteristic of Procellariiformes. Plumage is usually pale gray to white on the underparts, with varying shades of gray on the upperparts, giving them a subdued, two-toned appearance at sea.

Fulmars are pelagic throughout most of the year, occurring in northern and southern oceans. They breed on remote islands and coastal cliffs, often in colonies. Nests are placed on ledges, crevices, or in shallow burrows, and most species lay a single egg per year. Both parents participate in incubation and chick rearing, with juveniles taking several years to reach maturity in some populations.

Diet consists mainly of fish, squid, and crustaceans, but fulmars are opportunistic scavengers and will readily feed on carrion and offal, including items discarded from fishing operations and ships. They are strong gliders and can ride wind currents for long distances, traveling great distances between feeding and breeding sites. Longevity is high and reproductive rates are relatively low.

Two species are commonly recognized within the genus: the Northern fulmar (Fulmarus glacialis) and the Southern fulmar (Fulmarus glacialoides). Taxonomy is subject to revision, with genetic data sometimes leading to reclassification of related taxa. The genus belongs to the family Procellariidae, a diverse group of tube-nosed seabirds.