About the Cape Petrel

Cape Petrels are medium-sized seabirds with distinctive black and white spotted plumage and a black cap. They are highly gregarious and often seen in large flocks around ships.

Cape Petrels are very common in the Southern Ocean and are one of the most frequently sighted birds around Antarctic waters.

Their large population provides some resilience, but they are vulnerable to oil spills and climate change.

Changes in sea temperature and ice conditions can impact the krill and small fish they feed on, affecting their breeding success.

Where to see Cape Petrels

They breed on cliffs and rock faces throughout Antarctica and on many subantarctic islands.

Interesting facts about Cape Petrels

Cape Petrels use a projectile vomiting defence mechanism against predators, which can be startling to first-time observers.

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