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35. Pycroft's Petrel
(Pterodroma pycrofti)
Plate 15

Field Characters: 53/28. Very similar to the more abundant Cook's Petrel (34), particularly in the predominantly white underwing pattern. The uppersurface is darker, however, particularly the head and mantle, which appear dark grey at sea.

Bill black; feet pale fleshy-blue.

Differs from the Black-winged Petrel (38) by its uniformly darker upperbody parts and lack of a conspicuous underwing pattern. Paler than the very dark Gould Petrel (36).

Flight typically that of gadfly petrels.

Summer breeder on Poor Knights, Hen and Chickens, Stephenson, Red Mercury and Kawitihu Islands. Unconfirmed migrant to the North Pacific.