Procellariiformes, which include shearwaters, petrels, and albatrosses, are a group of seabirds known for their remarkable long-distance flying and pelagic (oceanic) lifestyles. Here are some key characteristics of shearwaters specifically within this order:
Body Structure: Shearwaters have a streamlined body and long, narrow wings, which are adapted for dynamic soaring. This wing structure allows them to glide effortlessly over the ocean for extended periods.
Flight Adaptations: Their wings are long and pointed, aiding in efficient long-distance flight. Shearwaters use dynamic soaring techniques to harness wind currents over the ocean, which helps them cover vast distances with minimal energy expenditure.
Feeding Habits: They primarily feed on fish, squid, and other marine organisms. Shearwaters often dive from the surface to catch their prey and have a specialized bill that helps them capture and handle slippery food.
Plumage: Their plumage is generally dark on the top and lighter underneath, providing camouflage from both above and below while they are flying or swimming.
Nesting Behavior: Shearwaters typically nest in colonies on remote islands or cliffs. Their nests are often burrows or crevices, and they lay a single egg per breeding season. Both parents take turns incubating the egg and feeding the chick.
Vocalizations: Shearwaters are known for their distinctive and varied vocalizations, which can be heard during the breeding season, especially when they are at their nesting sites.
Social Behavior: They are often found in large, noisy colonies during the breeding season. Outside of the breeding season, shearwaters can be seen in smaller groups or alone while foraging at sea.
Sense of Smell: Shearwaters have a highly developed sense of smell, which they use to locate food sources in the vast ocean.
These characteristics make shearwaters well-adapted to life at sea, where they spend most of their lives, only coming ashore to breed.
| Family Name | Family English Name |
|---|---|
| Diomedeidae | Albatrosses |
| Oceanitidae | Southern Storm-Petrels |
| Procellariidae | Shearwaters and Petrels |