Sooty Shearwater

🔍 Overview

A powerful, fast-flying pelagic seabird, seen off the Sussex coast during strong autumn gales.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Dark sooty brown plumage

Long, narrow wings held stiff in arcing glides

Silvery underwings often visible

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Best viewed from Selsey Bill, Splash Point (Seaford), or Brighton Marina during August to October, especially after storms.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Silent at sea. Characteristic low, banking flight over waves with few wingbeats.