National Parks/ Sanctuaries
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Common Names
bryan's shearwater
Regions
Hawaii, United StatesJapanUnited States of America, United States
Population
Approximately 50,000 individuals.
Habitat
Coastal cliffs and offshore islands.
Weight(in lbs) and Life Span
1.5, and 20
Regions
Hawaii, United States, Japan, United States of America, United States
Bryan's Shearwater is the smallest known shearwater species, characterized by its black and white plumage, bluish-gray beak, and blue tarsi. It was first collected in 1963 on Midway Atoll and initially misidentified as a Little Shearwater (Puffinus assimilis). DNA analysis in 2011 confirmed it as a distinct species. This elusive seabird is known to breed during the boreal winter, with nesting sites discovered on Higashijima Island in the Bonin Islands. The species faces significant threats from introduced predators, habitat degradation, and light pollution, contributing to its Critically Endangered status.
Activity Instructions
- Draw the Animal: Use the next page to draw a picture of the animal. Use your imagination and make it colorful!
- Write an Essay: Write a short essay about the conservation efforts to save this animal. Here are some questions to guide you:
- Why is this species important in its ecosystem?
- What are the threats it faces, and how can we help?
- What do you find most interesting about this species?
