Birdsong field guide
Balearic Shearwater
Puffinus mauretanicus
The Balearic Shearwater is a critically endangered medium-sized seabird and the only endemic breeding bird of the Balearic Islands. It is characterized by its heavy-bodied flight profile and relatively uniform, dusky-brown plumage compared to its congeners.
What it sounds like
Silent at sea; at the breeding colony, it emits a series of harsh, rhythmic, guttural croaks and wheezing screams.
Field notes
- It is currently classified as Critically Endangered, making it the most threatened seabird species in Europe.
- While most shearwaters migrate toward the Southern Hemisphere, this species moves northward into the Atlantic and Bay of Biscay after breeding.
- The species is a pursuit-diver, capable of swimming to depths of up to 40 meters to capture small pelagic fish and squid.
- Nesting occurs exclusively in the Balearic archipelago, specifically within deep coastal caves and narrow rock crevices on offshore islets.
- Taxonomically, it was once considered a subspecies of the Manx Shearwater before being recognized as a distinct species based on morphology and genetics.
Habitat
Pelagic and coastal marine waters; nests on rugged cliffs and in sea caves.
Range
Breeds in the Balearic Islands; migrates to the Northeast Atlantic coasts of France, Iberia, and the United Kingdom.
Similar & commonly confused birds
Heard a Balearic Shearwater?
Open Birdsong, tap record, and identify the bird singing near you in seconds — then collect it in your field journal.
Identify a bird by its song