White-vented (Elliot’s) Storm-Petrel (Oceanites gracilis)

Identification & Behavior: ~15.5 cm (6.1 in). The White-vented (Elliot’s) Storm-Petrel is all dusky with a white rump that extends to the lateral undertail coverts and thighs. The lower belly is pale. It has bars on the upper side of the wings. The tail is slightly forked. It seems to walk and bounce on the water while foraging. It is very similar to the Wilson’s Storm-Petrel but differs in being smaller, having a pale lower belly and a narrower white rump band. The Tail is also slightly forked. In flight, its feet protrude out the tail. Also, see Wedge-rumped Storm-Petrel.

Status: The White-vented (Elliot’s) Storm-Petrel is common in pelagic waters. It is known to breed on islands along the coast of Peru.

Name in Spanish: Golondrina de Mar Chica.

Sub-species: White-vented (Elliot’s) Storm-Petrel (Oceanites gracilis gracilis), Elliot 1859.

Meaning of Name: Oceanites: Gr. Sea Nymph. gracilis: L. elegant, graceful.

See more of the Family Ocenitidae