Southern Giant Petrel (Macronectes giganteus)
Southern Giant Petrel (Macronectes giganteus)
The Southern Giant Petrel (Macronectes giganteus) also known as the giant fulmar is a large seabird. Southern giant petrels have a dark plumage, a large yellow bill with a green tip, and gray-brown legs. They are known as the vultures of the Southern Ocean and are the most common seabirds. Southern giant petrels typically breed in the Antarctic continent and subarctic islands like Heard Island and South Georgia. They nest in rocky bluffs, open flats, and offshore rocks. This species of petrel feeds on fish, krill, and any waste from boats. They are not considered to be in danger of extinction.
The Southern Giant Petrel has a wingspan in the range of 59”-82.7” (150-210 cm) and total weight of 6.6-18.7 lb (3-8.5 kg). The body of the Southern Giant Petrel has an overall length between 31.5”-39” (80-99 cm), body width of 9.1”-10.8” (23-27.5 cm), and standing height of roughly 17.7”-20.9” (45-53 cm). The typical lifespan of the Southern Giant Petrel is between 15-30 years.
The Southern Giant Petrel (Macronectes giganteus) also known as the giant fulmar is a large seabird. Southern giant petrels have a dark plumage, a large yellow bill with a green tip, and gray-brown legs. They are known as the vultures of the Southern Ocean and are the most common seabirds. Southern giant petrels typically breed in the Antarctic continent and subarctic islands like Heard Island and South Georgia. They nest in rocky bluffs, open flats, and offshore rocks. This species of petrel feeds on fish, krill, and any waste from boats. They are not considered to be in danger of extinction.
The Southern Giant Petrel has a wingspan in the range of 59”-82.7” (150-210 cm) and total weight of 6.6-18.7 lb (3-8.5 kg). The body of the Southern Giant Petrel has an overall length between 31.5”-39” (80-99 cm), body width of 9.1”-10.8” (23-27.5 cm), and standing height of roughly 17.7”-20.9” (45-53 cm). The typical lifespan of the Southern Giant Petrel is between 15-30 years.
