Puffinus mauretanicus Lowe, 1921

Nomenclature

This species, commonly known as the Balearic shearwater, has a scientific name of Puffinus mauretanicus Lowe, 1921.

Body Measurements

It measures 34–39 cm (13–15 in) in body length, with a wingspan of 78–90 cm (31–35 in).

Flight Behavior

Like other members of its genus, it performs the characteristic "shearing" flight: it glides from side to side on stiff wings with very few wingbeats, and its wingtips almost touch the water surface. When flying low over the sea, this bird appears shaped like a flying cross, with its wings held at right angles to its body.

Coloration in Flight

As it turns, it alternates between showing its dark upperparts and paler undersides, creating a color shift from dark brown to dirty white.

Similar Species

Aside from having less contrasting plumage, the Balearic shearwater is very similar to the Manx shearwater and yelkouan shearwater that live elsewhere in the Mediterranean.

Overlap with Yelkouan Shearwater

At least one mixed breeding colony of Balearic shearwaters and yelkouan shearwaters occurs on Menorca, and the winter ranges of the two species overlap in the Central Mediterranean.

Identification Method

For scientific identification of this species, a combination of morphological characteristics and DNA sequence data is recommended.

Breeding Habitat

The Balearic shearwater breeds on islands and coastal cliffs in the Balearic Islands.

Winter Distribution

Most individuals of the species winter in the Balearic Sea, but some enter the Atlantic Ocean in late summer, reaching as far north as Great Britain and Ireland.