The band-rumped storm petrel, Madeiran storm petrel, or Harcourt's storm petrel is a species of storm petrel in the family Hydrobatidae.
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
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the Madeiran or Harcourt’s storm petrel, this small tubenose breeds on remote oceanic islands and spends most of its life far offshore. It is strictly nocturnal at breeding colonies, reducing predation risk. Colonies are highly vulnerable to invasive predators and light pollution, and birds are often drawn to artificial lights during fledging. Taxonomy within the band-rumped complex has been revised, with several cryptic forms split in recent years.
Egg (coll.MHNT)
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.
