Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Sooty Shearwater

Scientific name: Puffinus griseus


Sooty Shearwater

IUCN Status: Near Threatened

Family: PROCELLARIIDAE

Group: Birds

Shyness: Suspicious

Safe distance: 10 m

Breeding season / Courtship: N/A

Gestation: N/A

Births: N/A


Habitat:
Oceans, islands, rocky coasts

Description:
The Sooty Shearwater is a medium-sized seabird known for its dark brown plumage and long, slender wings. It is often seen gliding close to the ocean waves, skillfully using air currents to travel great distances. This tireless migrator covers thousands of kilometers between its breeding sites in the southern hemisphere and feeding areas in the northern hemisphere. It nests mainly on remote islands, digging burrows in the ground to lay a single egg. The Sooty Shearwater feeds primarily on fish and squid, diving underwater to catch its prey. Although its population is still large, it is threatened by industrial fishing and climate change.

Recommended lens:
>=400mm

Photography tips:
To photograph the Sooty Shearwater, choose sunny days when the light highlights the shades of its dark plumage. Use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images from a distance without disturbing the bird. Try to photograph it in flight, taking advantage of its graceful glides over the waves. If possible, position yourself on a promontory for an unobstructed view of the ocean. Be patient and wait for the right moment to capture the bird in a dynamic pose.

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