Nature conservation

Threatened species

Blue Petrel - profile

Indicative distribution


   Loading map...
Key:
known
predicted
The areas shown in pink and/purple are the sub-regions where the species or community is known or predicted to occur. They may not occur thoughout the sub-region but may be restricted to certain areas. ( click here to see geographic restrictions). The information presented in this map is only indicative and may contain errors and omissions.
Scientific name: Halobaena caerulea
Conservation status in NSW: Not listed
Commonwealth status: Vulnerable
Profile last updated: 13 Nov 2024

Description

A small prion-like patterned petrel weighing around 200 grams and with a wingspan of 62 to 71 cm. It is readily identified by the white-tipped tail which is unique among petrels and prions. Other distinctive characteristics include the  pale bluish-grey upperparts with a narrow open 'M' marking across the upperwings, the black bill and the prominent blackish cap offset by a large white forehead patch.

Distribution

The Blue Petrel has a global distribution throughout the southern oceans from the pack ice edge up to about 30 degrees south. Breeding sites include Macquarie Island (Australia); the Crozet and Kergeuelen Islands in the French Southern Territories; Marion and Prince Edward Islands (South Africa); South Georgia; Diego Ramirez  Cape Horn, and the Hermite and Wollaston Groups of islands (Chile). In NSW it is a rare eruptive visitor between June and September. It tends to occurs with other eruptive southern seabirds (such as the Southern Fulmar and Kerguelen Petrel) as a result of severe cyclonic conditions to the south west of Australia which force the birds northwards. The majority of records in NSW are of beach cast individuals from Sydney south, although several have been found washed up as far north as Minnie Water.

Habitat and ecology

  • Individuals are rarely encountered inshore and offshore over the continental shelf and in pelagic waters off the shelf break.
  • It forages in Antarctic and subantarctic waters mainly on pelagic crustaceans, fish, cephalopods and insects.

Regional distribution and habitat

Click on a region below to view detailed distribution, habitat and vegetation information.


Threats

Recovery strategies

Activities to assist this species

IBRA Bioregion IBRA Subregion Known or predicted Geographic restrictions region