About Pterodroma mollis (Gould, 1844)
Taxonomic Identity
The soft-plumaged petrel (Pterodroma mollis) is a medium-sized petrel.
General Plumage and Silhouette
Its plumage is dark grey and white, with narrow wings and a pointed tail that is distinct in flight.
Head Markings
It has a dark grey head, with prominent white feathers on the cheeks and throat.
The forehead has white speckling, and there is a prominent dark eye patch.
Underside Coloration
Most of its underside is white, while the underwings are dark grey.
Bill Characteristics
Its bill is black, measures around 25–32 mm long, and has a sharp hook.
Leg Characteristics
Its legs are pink, with black markings on the outer webs and toes.
Plumage Morphs
There is also a dark morph, which is a distinct plumage variation of this species.
Vocalizations
Both sexes are vocal, producing medium-pitched moans and shrill squeaks.
Primary Breeding Range
This species breeds on islands in the Southern Hemisphere; its breeding locations include Tristan da Cunha, Gough Island, the Prince Edward Islands, Crozet Islands, Macquarie Island, and the Antipodes Islands of New Zealand.
Additional Breeding Locations
Small numbers also breed in the Maatsuyker Island Group of southern Tasmania.
Non-breeding Dispersal
Outside of the breeding season, it disperses, reaching eastern South America as far north as Brazil, southern Africa, and Australia.
Vagrant Records
It has been recorded as a vagrant in Norway and Jordan.
