Balearic Shearwater

🔍 Overview

A critically endangered seabird from the western Mediterranean, seen irregularly off the Sussex coast on passage. Very scarce spring to autumn visitor.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Dusky brown above, paler below

Slender wings and rapid, shearing flight

Typically darker overall than Manx Shearwater

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Best spotted during sea-watches off Selsey Bill, Beachy Head, or Birling Gap, especially during August to October on strong south-westerlies.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Silent at sea. Often flies low over waves, with rapid wingbeats interspersed with glides, often mixed with Manx Shearwaters or Gannets.