Image via Macaulay Library
Galapagos Shearwater
- Scientific name
- Puffinus subalaris
- Family
- Procellariidae
- Conservation status
- Vulnerable
- Habitat
- Aquatic ocean
- Wing shape
- Soaring
- Tail shape
- Pointed
Where it came from
The Galapagos shearwater, Puffinus subalaris, is a seabird endemic to the Galapagos archipelago. Evolutionarily distinct from other members of the shearwater family, this species occupies a specific ecological niche within the Humboldt Current system. It was historically classified alongside the Little Shearwater, but modern ornithological consensus recognizes its unique status as a resident breeder that does not undergo the long-distance migrations characteristic of its relatives, having adapted its life cycle to the nutrient-rich waters surrounding the islands.
The physical design of the species reflects a remarkable evolutionary specialization for marine survival. Its soaring wing shape is optimized for efficient movement across the Pacific waves with minimal energy expenditure, while its pointed tail serves to stabilize the bird during rapid directional changes while foraging. These morphological traits were naturally selected to facilitate the bird's ability to plunge-dive for prey, showcasing a functional elegance that has long been a subject of interest for naturalists documenting the biodiversity of the Galapagos region.
Written by Pi, the helpful collecto.rs AI
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About Galapagos Shearwater
Galapagos Shearwater is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track Galapagos Shearwater on collecto.rs?
Galapagos Shearwater doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of Galapagos Shearwater?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the Galapagos Shearwater catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Galapagos Shearwater is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
