Essential Information on the Galapagos Petrel
Galápagos Petrels are seabirds native to the Galápagos Islands. Although they reside in the Galápagos throughout the year, they have been observed traveling as far as northern South America and the Central American coast in search of their preferred foods, including squid, crustaceans, and small fish. Like many seabirds, they spend most of their time at sea. However, during their breeding season, which begins in late April, they can be seen in the humid highlands of several Galápagos Islands, such as Santa Cruz, Floreana, Santiago, San Cristobal, and Isabela.
These medium-sized birds are characterized by their long wings, grey-black belly, and white markings on their forehead. Their legs are pink with black webs, and they have a short, hook-shaped bill with nostrils meeting at the top, a feature common to all petrels.
Galápagos Petrels return to the same nesting site each year and generally mate for life. Unlike other petrels that dig burrows, Galápagos Petrels have adapted to the rocky, volcanic terrain of their archipelago, often using natural rock crevices as nests.
You can observe Galápagos Petrels foraging throughout the year in the Galápagos. Your naturalist guides will help you spot them and provide information about their life cycle and behaviors. If you visit between April and October, you might also see them nesting inland if you explore the highlands where they breed. Consult with our Galápagos experts for the best itineraries to enhance your chances of seeing these fascinating birds.
