Region

Macaronesia, Northeast Atlantic

Typical Environment

Breeds on rugged islets and sea cliffs of Macaronesia, particularly around Madeira and nearby islands, and ranges widely over the subtropical North Atlantic when not breeding. At sea it occupies pelagic waters far from land, usually beyond the continental shelf. It forages over upwelling zones, fronts, and convergence lines where prey is concentrated. Nesting occurs in rock crevices, boulder fields, and burrows in sparse vegetation. Birds visit colonies only at night and remain strictly pelagic by day.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 600 m

Climate Zone

Subtropical

Temperament

secretive and nocturnal at colonies; pelagic and unobtrusive at sea

Flight Pattern

buoyant with quick, shallow wingbeats interspersed with brief glides close to the water surface

Social Behavior

Forms loose colonies on remote islets, nesting in crevices or burrows. Pairs are typically monogamous and show strong site fidelity, returning to the same nest crevice in successive seasons. Colony attendance is strictly at night to avoid predation, with silent approaches and departures over the sea.

Migratory Pattern

Seasonal migrant

Song Description

At colonies, gives a series of purring, churring trills and cooing notes, often delivered from within the nest crevice. Calls are soft but carry on calm nights, aiding mate and site recognition.

Diet

Feeds on small fish, squid, and planktonic crustaceans, often picking items from the surface while pattering its feet on the water. It also consumes gelatinous zooplankton and scavenges oily offal behind fishing vessels. Olfactory cues such as dimethyl sulfide help it locate productive patches at sea.

Preferred Environment

Usually forages over deep pelagic waters beyond the continental shelf, especially near oceanic fronts and upwelling zones. Frequently feeds in light winds and calm seas but can exploit prey lines formed by current edges.