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The Polynesian Storm Petrel (Nesofregetta fuliginosa) is a species of seabird in the family Oceanitidae. It is the only species placed in the genus Nesofregetta.[1] Markedly polymorphic, several subspecies were described, and light birds were even considered a species on their own (white-throated storm-petrel). Subspecies are not generally accepted today.
Polynesian Storm-petrels can weigh anywhere from 56-86g and can be as tall as 10.2 inches. They are identifiable by their black bills, broad, round wings, and black feet. Some of the Polynesian Storm-petrels vary in regards to the white on their stomach, but can be identifiable through that as well.[2] They can also be identified through their zig-zag flight patterns and their forked tail.[3] In regards to nesting, Polynesian Storm-petrels create burrows on nesting islands and lay eggs there. The burrows will be around vegetation or in rock crevices.[4]
In regards to nesting, Polynesian Storm-petrels create burrows on nesting islands and lay eggs there. The burrows will be around vegetation or in rock crevices.[4]
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Breeding edit
Polynesian Storm-petrels will generally breed on coral or volcanic islands. There, they are a part of a colony and most Storm-petrels arrive at night after foraging throughout the day. They also mainly stay on their island, which points towards a sedentary lifestyle.[4]
Depending on the distance from the equator, Polynesian Storm-petrels might lay eggs seasonally or throughout the year. The closer they are to the equator, the less likely they are to lay eggs seasonally. Polynesian Storm-petrels lay single eggs and it takes about 50 days to hatch. The fledging age is about 60 days after hatching. Until they fledge, young Polynesian Storm-petrels are fed and protected by both parents.[4]
Diet edit
Generally, Polynesian Storm-petrels have a carnivorous diet. Their diet mainly consists of cephalopods, fish, and crustaceans. They mainly hunt for food which they are in flight through diving into the water. [4]
Location edit
It is found in Chile, French Polynesia, Kiribati, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, possibly American Samoa, possibly Fiji, and possibly Samoa.
Its natural habitats are open seas, rocky shores, and sandy shores. It is threatened by introduced predators in its nesting areas.
Polynesian Storm-petrels can typically be found on the islands of Kiribati, French Polynesia, New Caledonia, and some islands that are offshore of Chile. [5]
Threats edit
The main threats to Polynesian Storm-petrels include introduced species like rats and cats. Loss of egg and chick population by the house mouse is also a threat, along with loss of vegetation due to agriculture and rabbits[5]
Rising sea levels as a result of global climate change has affected Polynesian Storm-petrel's habitat. Vegetation and grass can get washed out due to overly aggressive storms, which can destroy critical breeding areas. Climate change also results in heaver rainfall, which then results in increased ground water salinity.[6]
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References edit
- ^ "Polynesian Storm-petrel".
- ^ https://www.vanuatuconservation.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/No.-10-Polynesian-Storm-Petrel.pdf
- ^ https://www.manu.pf/oceanite-a-gorge-blanche/?lang=en
- ^ a b c d e Dewey, Tanya. "Nesofregetta fuliginosa (Polynesian storm petrel)". Animal Diversity Web. Retrieved 2024-03-02.
- ^ a b "Polynesian Storm-petrel". EDGE of Existence. Retrieved 2024-03-03.
- ^ Pierce, Ray. "A Conservation Action Plan for Two Endangered Seabirds - Phoenix Petrel (Pterodroma alba) and Polynesian Storm-petrel (Nesofregetta fuliginosa), 2020-2025" (PDF).