silverpetrels

Silverpetrels are a group of seabirds belonging to the family Hydrobatidae, commonly known as storm petrels. They are characterized by their small size, slender build, and a distinctive forked tail. Their plumage is typically dark, often black or dark grey, with prominent white markings, particularly on the rump, which gives them their common name. This white rump is a key feature for identification in the field.

These birds are highly pelagic, spending most of their lives at sea and only coming ashore to breed. They are found in oceans worldwide, particularly in temperate and polar regions. Silverpetrels are often observed following ships, a behavior known as "ship-following," where they feed on the disturbed food items. Their flight pattern is erratic and fluttering, resembling that of a butterfly, and they have a habit of pattering their feet on the water's surface as they forage for small invertebrates, fish eggs, and crustaceans.

Breeding usually occurs in colonies, often on remote islands. They typically nest in burrows or crevices, and lay a single egg. Both parents share incubation and chick-rearing duties. Due to their offshore lifestyle and remote breeding grounds, silverpetrels are not well-studied, and their conservation status varies among species. Some species are considered of least concern, while others face threats from introduced predators on their breeding islands and pollution.