A recent study published in Current Biology sheds light on the unique foraging behaviors of Desertas Petrels during hurricane season. The study, titled ‘Oceanic Seabirds Chase Tropical Cyclones,’ conducted by researchers at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, reveals that these seabirds in the North Atlantic do not avoid intense tropical cyclones but instead utilize the dynamic conditions to their advantage.
Unlike other pelagic seabirds, Desertas Petrels exhibit a fascinating behavior of following tropical cyclones for days, covering thousands of kilometers. Lead author Francesco Ventura, a Postdoc Investigator in Biology at WHOI, expressed astonishment at this behavior, stating, ‘This is the first time we have observed this behavior.’
Caroline Ummenhofer, Associate Scientist in Physical Oceanography at WHOI, highlighted the birds’ ability to navigate and exploit wind conditions over the North Atlantic effectively for their travels. The Desertas Petrels, nesting on Bugio Island in Portugal, embark on extensive foraging trips during their breeding season, flying roundtrips up to 7,500 miles across the Atlantic in search of food.
The study found that the birds adjusted their flight patterns in response to storm conditions, reducing ground speed to avoid wing injuries and taking advantage of favorable tailwind support provided by the storms. Despite encountering waves up to 8 meters high and wind speeds of 100 kilometers per hour, none of the tracked birds were harmed by the cyclones.
This research provides valuable insights into how seabirds adapt to extreme weather events and utilize them for their benefit. Understanding these behaviors is crucial for conservation efforts and enhancing our knowledge of marine life interactions with natural phenomena.
