Leach‘s Storm Petrel

The Leach’s Storm Petrel (Hydrobates leucorhous) is a small, agile seabird distinguished by its sooty black plumage, forked tail, and a pale rump patch. Seen only occasionally on our tours in Faxaflói Bay, this species is more elusive than its European counterpart, making sightings a special event. Leach’s Storm Petrels are true oceanic birds, spending the majority of their lives far from land and foraging on small fish, plankton, and marine invertebrates. Their fluttering, erratic flight over the waves is a captivating sight, offering a rare chance to observe one of the open ocean’s most mysterious inhabitants.