Birds
Wilson's Storm-petrel
Oceanites oceanicus · also called Wilson's storm petrel
No larger than a sparrow, Wilson’s storm-petrel may be the single most numerous seabird species on Earth, breeding on the Antarctic continent itself before scattering across nearly every ocean on the planet for the rest of the year.
Overview
Wilson’s storm-petrel, Oceanites oceanicus, is a tiny, far-ranging seabird native to ocean and polar habitat spanning nearly every ocean basin in the world. Its possible status as the most numerous seabird species on Earth, extraordinary range for such a small bird, and Antarctic breeding grounds make it one of the most quietly remarkable seabirds found anywhere in the world.
A giant population in a tiny body
Despite weighing barely more than a few coins, Wilson’s storm-petrel may outnumber every other seabird species on the planet, a striking reminder that global dominance in the animal kingdom has little to do with individual size.
Status
Least Concern, remaining extremely abundant and widespread, considered stable and among the most numerous of any seabird species.
Wilson's Storm-petrel: common questions
Is Wilson's storm-petrel really the most numerous seabird on Earth?
By some estimates, yes, this species is considered a strong candidate for the most numerous seabird species on Earth, with a total population thought to number in the tens of millions of individuals.
How far does such a small bird travel?
This species is only about the size of a sparrow, yet ranges across nearly every ocean on the planet outside the breeding season, an extraordinary distribution for a bird of its small size.
Where does Wilson's storm-petrel breed?
This species breeds on the Antarctic continent itself and numerous sub-Antarctic islands, nesting in rock crevices and burrows close to the coast during the brief Antarctic summer.
How does Wilson's storm-petrel catch its food?
This species forages by pattering its feet rapidly against the water's surface while fluttering just above the waves, a technique that helps it locate and capture small prey near the ocean surface.