The grey-faced petrel is a species of petrel endemic to the North Island of New Zealand. In New Zealand it is also known by its Māori name ōi and as a muttonbird.
Region
Southwest Pacific Ocean
Typical Environment
Breeds on forested headlands and offshore islands around the North Island of New Zealand, using burrows dug into soil or among roots. At sea it ranges widely across the Tasman Sea and north into subtropical Pacific waters. Foraging occurs mainly over the continental shelf edge, oceanic fronts, and areas of upwelling. It avoids enclosed harbours and spends most of its life far from land, coming ashore only to breed.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 600 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Known in New Zealand as ōi and commonly called a muttonbird, the grey-faced petrel breeds in burrows on offshore islands around the North Island. It returns to colonies only at night, helping it avoid predators. Like many petrels, it produces an energy-rich stomach oil to feed chicks and for long flights. Adults are long-lived and show strong site fidelity to their natal colonies.
Grey-faced petrel in Victoria, Australia.
Temperament
nocturnal at colonies and wary at sea
Flight Pattern
soaring glider
Social Behavior
A colonial, burrow-nesting seabird that returns to land only at night during the breeding season. Pairs are largely monogamous and reuse burrows, laying a single egg per season. Both parents incubate and feed the chick by regurgitation of oily prey. Young fledge independently and disperse widely at sea.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
At colonies it gives wailing, moaning, and cackling calls, often in duets between partners. Calls carry over long distances on dark, windy nights and become most intense during peak breeding activity.
