About Oceanodroma castro (Harcourt, 1851)
Size Measurements
The band-rumped storm petrel (scientific name: Oceanodroma castro (Harcourt, 1851)) measures 19–21 cm (7.5–8.3 in) in length, has a 43–46 cm (17–18 in) wingspan, and weighs 44–49 g (1.6–1.7 oz).
Plumage
Its plumage is mainly brownish black, with a large white rump.
Similar Species Comparison
It shares similarities with Leach's storm petrel, as both have a forked tail and long wings.
Species Distinguishing Features
However, Leach's storm petrel has a more deeply forked tail, a differently shaped white rump that is V-shaped or triangular, and a 'tern-like' flight, while the band-rumped storm petrel has a more 'shearwater-like' flight.
Breeding Range Overview
This species breeds on islands in the warmer regions of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Atlantic Breeding Locations
In the Atlantic, its breeding locations include Berlengas (a few tens of kilometers off mainland Portugal), the Azores, Madeira, the Canary Islands, and Saint Helena.
Pacific Breeding Locations
In the Pacific, it breeds off eastern Japan, on Kauai, Hawaii, and on the Galápagos Islands.
New Breeding Record
In 2016, it was reported that this species had also begun breeding on the Mauna Loa volcano on the island of Hawaii.
