Manx Shearwater

Puffinus puffinus

© 2025
Share   
0 recent observations

Brief #

Dark above and white below, exhibits typical shearing flight above the water.

Red List Status #

The Manx Shearwater is unlikely to become extinct in the near future.
Find out more about IUCN's Red List program here

Description #

It has the typically "shearing" flight of the genus, dipping from side to side on stiff wings with few wingbeats, the wingtips almost touching the water. This bird looks like a flying cross, with its wings held at right angles to the body, and it changes from black to white as the black upper parts and white under sides are alternately exposed as it travels low over the sea.

Measurements #

Length: 32 - 38 cm
Wingspan: 76 - 89 cm
Weight: 350 - 575 g