Experience the Uncommon Seabird Species That Journeys to a Tempest for a Tasty Meal
Experience the Uncommon Seabird Species That Journeys to a Tempest for a Tasty Meal
Mayhem unfolds as hurricanes rage with unwavering intensity, altering coastlines and leaving ecological balance in disarray. The majority of creatures would sensibly retreat from the escalating wreckage, yet one diminutive seabird dares to challenge this norm—it pursues these storms.
This extraordinary seabird, known as the Desertas Petrel or Pterodroma deserta, is an elusive oceanic resident that boasts an unconventional survival tactic: it seeks out hurricanes or cyclones. For this mysterious bird, these maelstroms aren't to be avoided but rather gateways to their next meal.
The Desertas Petrel Goes to Extremes for Food—Even 7,500 Miles
Native to just Bugio Island, part of the Desertas Archipelago off the coast of Madeira, the Desertas Petrel is not only a rare seabird but also ranks as one of the world's most elusive. With fewer than 200 verified breeding pairs, these crow-sized avians are a testament to resilience.
The treacherous cliffs of Bugio, accessible only by the most daring climbers, serve as a natural fortress for the Desertas Petrel. It's safe from predators and human interference, yet its population's precarious nature underscores its dependence on this remote, isolated haven for survival.
Physically, the Desertas Petrel is a marvel of endurance and design. Its streamlined body, long tapered wings, and feather-light frame are tailor-made for life at sea, allowing it to glide effortlessly over vast oceans with unmatched efficiency. Its unique adaptations transform it into a long-distance marvel.
During their breeding season, Desertas Petrels often embark on foraging trips spanning up to 12,000 kilometers, traversing the Atlantic in hot pursuit of minnows, cephalopods, and crustaceans. Yet, these breathtaking voyages only scratch the surface of their full potential.
Looking for Lunch in the Eye of the Storm
While most seabirds steer clear of cyclones, the Desertas Petrel courts them with reckless abandon. Research conducted by the esteemed Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) revealed that an alarming 30% of tracked petrels actively sought out these tempests, sometimes following them for days and covering thousands of kilometers.
The data showed that these hardy birds leveraged turbulent storm aftermath to their advantage. In the wake of a cyclone, surface water temperatures dropped dramatically, and nutrient-rich deeper layers were brought to the surface. This oceanic commotion fueled phytoplankton blooms, drawing prey to shallower waters where the Desertas Petrels could readily capture them.
Instead of braving gale-force winds, the birds cleverly navigated storm fringes, taking full advantage of the storm-induced oceanic changes. Their movements suggested that they could sense cyclones from hundreds of kilometers away through the unique infrasound generated by cyclonic winds and waves.
Once a cyclone was detected, Desertas Petrel movements revealed a consistent pattern: they flew toward the storm, slowed down to conserve energy, and partook in prolonged feeding sessions in the storm's wake.
The Desertas Petrel Has Evolved to Thrive in Turbulence
These birds excel at traversing vast distances, thanks to their specialized physiology. They harness wind currents and oceanic conditions to levels previously thought unattainable.
Desertas Petrels align their movements with tailwinds at precise angles, maximizing travel efficiency, according to a January 2020 study published in The Royal Society. This mastery of aerodynamics enables them to sustain their journey even in hurricane-force winds and tornado-like waves, with minimal exertion.
But why chase hurricanes?
The answer lies in their prey. Small fish, cephalopods, and crustaceans typically reside in depths greater than 600 feet, beyond the reach of surface-feeding birds like the Desertas Petrel. However, ostensibly destructive cyclones bring these elusive creatures closer to the surface, transforming a seemingly inaccessible meal into their next catch.
Remarkably, not a single tracked petrel suffered injuries or abandoned its nest during the study, highlighting its resilience. By reducing flight duration during intense conditions, these birds minimized the risk of wing fatigue or damage.
The Desertas Petrel's cyclone-chasing behavior challenges preconceived notions of hurricanes as simply destructive forces. While they wreak havoc on land, they present opportunities in the ocean's vast expanse. For the petrels, hurricanes become not mere obstacles to endure but catalysts for survival and success.
The Desertas Petrel’s resilience showcases nature’s ability to preserve life even amidst destruction. How does their adaptation make you feel about the diversity of our natural world? Take a 2-minute test to see where you stand on the Connectedness to Nature Scale.
The Desertas Petrel's pursuit of hurricanes is not limited to cyclones, as they also seek out storms caused by hurricanes. These seabirds, including hurricane seabirds and cyclone seabirds, find nutrient-rich waters and prey in the aftermath of these storms. This behavior is not exclusive to the Desertas Petrel, as cyclone birds, a collective term for seabirds that capitalize on cyclone-induced conditions, adopt a similar strategy. Despite the risks associated with hurricane-force winds and tornado-like waves, these seabirds have evolved to thrive in these turbulent conditions.