Audubon’s Shearwater

1. Bird Name
English name of the bird: Audubon’s Shearwater
Scientific (Latin) name: Puffinus lherminieri

2. Appearance
The Audubon’s Shearwater or Puffinus lherminieri is a demure bird with an arresting charm. The overall coloration is a striking contrast of white and black. Its back, wings, and tail are often a sooty black, gradually transitioning to pristine white on the underparts. The beak is relatively short and hooked, adapted for the predator’s natural diet. The eyes are black, bordered with smoky circles. There are no discernible differences between males and females, both sporting the classic shearwater look with the long, slender wings and rounded tail.

3. Size
Typically, the length of an Audubon’s Shearwater averages around 30-35 cm, approximately 12 to 14 inches. Their wingspan extends around 75cm in full flight. They weigh in between 150-200 grams, making them a lightweight bird species.

4. Habitat & Distribution
Primarily a sea bird, the Audubon’s Shearwater is distributed over a broad expanse of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, spanning continents. They nest in the tropical and subtropical regions including the Caribbean, the Galapagos Islands, and the Indian Ocean islands. Preferring coastal areas, they are rarely seen inland.

5. Interesting Facts
Here are a few fascinating facts about this unique bird:
• Despite limited geographic overlap, this species does not often mix with other shearwaters, tending to stay within its specific habitat.
• The Audubon’s Shearwater exhibits a trait known as ‘bioluminescence’ – a glow-in-the-dark feature – which makes it visible even in the dark sea waters.
• Their name is in honor of the renowned ornithologist and painter, John James Audubon.

6. Diet
The diet of an Audubon’s Shearwater consists mainly of fish and squid. Occasionally, they also feed on crustaceans and other small marine animals.

7. Behavior & Sounds
Unusual among many bird species, the Audubon’s Shearwater is nocturnal and most active during the night. Their call is a series of soft cooing and chuckling sounds, often heard in the darkness over open waters. Their flight pattern is low and swift, skimming the water surface while feeding.

8. Conservation Status
According to the IUCN Red List, the Audubon’s Shearwater is classified as a species of ‘Least Concern’. This status does not imply complete safety, and efforts to conserve their natural habitats are still crucial.

9. Lifespan
They have a lifespan of approximately 15-20 years in the wild. Lifespan in captivity varies due to differing circumstances and environments.

10. Additional Notes
This bird, despite living predominantly over water, nests in burrows on islands. They lay only one egg per nesting attempt. As humans further encroach on these nesting grounds, the risk of population decline increases.

In regard to their role in ecosystems, the species aids in controlling the population of small marine animals, thus contributing to maintaining a balanced marine ecosystem. They are also vital indicators of ocean health, with changes in their populations or food sources signaling larger issues within the marine ecosystem.

In French, the bird is known as “Puffin d’Audubon,” and in Spanish, it’s referred to as “Pardela de Audubon.”