Galápagos Petrel
Pterodroma phaeopygia
Critically EndangeredAves · Procellariiformes · Procellariidae
About
The Galápagos petrel is one of the six endemic seabirds of the Galápagos. Its scientific name derives from Ancient Greek: Pterodroma originates from pteron and dromos, meaning "wing" and "runner", and phaeopygia comes from phaios and pugios, meaning "dusky" and "rump". Members of Pterodroma genus are also called the gadfly petrels because their erratic twisting and turning in flight resemble that of gadflies.
Fun Fact
One of the most remarkable features in this group, however, is that all have external tubular nostrils, suggesting that they have developed an ability to smell, detect and locate their food.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Found in thickly vegetated sites where the soil is soft enough to burrow deep cavities, but some individuals also choose to nest in volcanic crevices.
Diet
Eat them while flying.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Destruction
- Pollution
- Invasive Species
- Over-Collection
- Climate Change