ML178718841

Age

Not specified

Sex

Not specified

Observation details

All hell broke loose on the Helen H. Part of COSH-dominated mixed flock that was over skipjack tuna. First picked up the bird ~4:54pm approaching the feeding flock, viewing dorsum, NB’s initial impression was of a small, dainty gadfly petrel dark above with pale hindcollar that imparted a capped look, and white at base of uppertail that was reduced as compared to BCPE...all were alerted to this interesting bird’s presence. Closer inspection by TBJ/LDS/NB revealed thick dark underwing ulnar bar against white background and dark cowl broken by pale collar...IDing this bird as a somewhat messy body-molting Cahow. Compared to your typical BEPE, ours was a bit tricky in that it showed a narrow pale hind collar, a slightly larger-than-average whitish area at the base of the uppertail (somewhat light-dependent), and a reduced cowled effect due to that head/nape molt. It leisurely worked the area for some 40 minutes, making a few close passes, and good views were had by all. We covered over two miles with the bird per Capt. Joe Huckemeyer. Seen at one point in direct comparison with BCPE; size/bulk difference striking. An unforgettable experience shared by all stunned and thrilled Brookline Bird Club participants on board. Part of an epic feeding flock that also simultaneously (!) included Brown Booby, Black-capped Petrel, and Northern Fulmar.

Technical information

Model

NIKON D500

ISO

400

Focal length

500 mm

Flash

Flash did not fire

f-stop

f/5.6

Shutter speed

1/1000 sec

Dimensions

2439 pixels x 1626 pixels

Original file size

2.12 MB