Giant Petrels

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About the Giant Petrel

Giant petrels belonging to the genus Macronectes are large, robust seabirds closely related to albatrosses. Two species of giant petrels exist: the Northern Giant Petrel (Macronectes halli) and the Southern Giant Petrel (Macronectes giganteus). These birds are known for their size, aggressive behaviour, and scavenging habits.

They have robust bodies, hooked solid bills, and tube-shaped nostrils (a feature common to all petrels). Their plumage varies between species and individuals. Northern Giant Petrels have a greyish-brown plumage with lighter tips on their feathers. At the same time, Southern Giant Petrels can be similar in colour or exhibit a unique white phase, where they are predominantly white with dark speckles.

Giant petrels are among the largest petrels, with a wingspan ranging from 150 to 210 cm and a body length of 80 to 100 cm. They can weigh 7.7 to 17.6 pounds, making them the heaviest petrel species.

Commonality of Giant Petrels

Giant Petrels are relatively common birds.

Protection & Threats

Listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, although specific populations may be vulnerable to threats such as bycatch in fisheries.

Climate Change

Climate change may lead to more intense storms, impacting breeding success and pressure seabird colonies. Climate change may also disrupt Antarctic food webs, which could lead to a reduction in krill stocks. This could then lead to population declines in other species that male giant petrels eat during the breeding season, which could also negatively impact the giant petrels.