While our mountain retreat offers breathtaking views of the Costa Rican highlands, a different kind of avian wonder exists further out at sea. Today, we set our sights on the White-bellied Storm-Petrel, a master of the open ocean!

This little bird, measuring a mere 18-20 centimeters (7.1-7.9 inches) in length, is a true adventurer. Unlike many of the feathered residents you might encounter around our retreat, the White-bellied Storm-Petrel is a highly pelagic bird. This means its life revolves around the vast expanse of the ocean, rarely venturing close to land except for breeding purposes.

Spotting a White-bellied Storm-Petrel from our mountaintop sanctuary is improbable, but for those venturing on offshore excursions or cruises, keep an eye out for this fascinating creature.

A Master of the High Seas

The White-bellied Storm-Petrel lives up to its name. Its plumage is a beautiful contrast of black and white, with a dark “hood” and a white underbelly. It has a fine black bill, a square tail, and surprisingly long legs for its size (grallae being Latin for “stilts”).

While the specifics of their breeding habits remain a bit mysterious, we do know that White-bellied Storm-Petrels are nocturnal when on land. But take flight over the ocean, and their true talents are revealed.

Imagine this: a bird skimming effortlessly across the wave tops, its wings held in a low glide. That’s the White-bellied Storm-Petrel in its element. They’re known for their pattering and dipping flight patterns, using their long legs to step off the water’s surface as they snatch up crustaceans and small squid. They’ve even been observed feeding alongside other seabirds and following ships.

A Species of Concern

The White-bellied Storm-Petrel’s pelagic lifestyle makes studying them quite challenging. However, their populations are thought to be decreasing, earning them a designation of “Least Concern” with a downward trend by the IUCN. This highlights the importance of protecting the ocean ecosystems that these birds rely on.

Witnessing a Wonder

While you won’t find them flitting through the trees around our retreat, the White-bellied Storm-Petrel is a remarkable example of the avian diversity Costa Rica has to offer. If you ever find yourself on a boat trip along the Costa Rican coast, keep your eyes peeled for this master of the high seas. The sight of a White-bellied Storm-Petrel gracefully dancing across the waves is a memory you won’t soon forget.

For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica