Cory’s Shearwater

🔍 Overview

A rare but regular pelagic visitor to Sussex waters, Cory’s Shearwater is best seen after strong south-westerlies from seawatching points.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Size: Very large shearwater (45–56 cm)

Plumage: Grey-brown above, pale below

Bill: Strong, yellowish with hooked tip

Flight: Long glides interspersed with wingbeats, often very relaxed

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Offshore visitor, typically seen from Selsey Bill, Worthing, or Birling Gap after storms in late summer and early autumn.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Silent at sea. Sometimes mixed with Manx Shearwaters during passage.

📸 Birding Tip

Use a scope during August–September after Atlantic storms. Watch for larger size and slow wingbeats.