ML646099404

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One bird flew rather close to the boat, pics obtained. All dark mid-sized petrel with regular flap-and-glide action low above water, rather fast and direct compared to Barau’s, clearly heavier and larger than Bulwer’s Petrel. EDIT (after studying and uploading pics) Even if the on-site observation left little doubt, pictures further confirm the ID, I think. Distinctive long and thick-based neck, stubby bill, long and tapered tail, "fat" body, even-widthed, short-handed wings held mostly straight, lack of any contrasting area (except for pale spot on the upper wing likely due to missing coverts), should rule out all other dark petrel options, of which Mascarene Petrel is the most likely at location anyway. All present observers (including H and S Tanoi, K. Zufelt, F. Jan), concurred on the ID. 2 other birds were also observed, with similar visible features, but distance/poor light prevented any meaningful picture being taken.