Delaware's coastlines are teeming with diverse seabird species. Among the top types are the Common Loon, known for its distinctive black-and-white plumage and haunting calls; the Red-throated Loon, recognizable by its vibrant throat patch during the breeding season; and the Pacific Loons, admired for their black-and-white checkered back. The Atlantic Yellow-nosed Albatross, with a wingspan up to 7.5 feet, occasionally visits, while the Northern Fulmar regularly navigates Delaware's air currents. Each species is adapted uniquely to its environment, highlighting the ecological richness of Delaware's aquatic habitats. Exploring these species further reveals more about their critical roles and conservation needs.
Common Loon
The Common Loon, distinguished by its black-and-white plumage and haunting calls, thrives in Delaware's coastal and freshwater habitats.
During the breeding season, these birds are drawn to bodies of water where their unique adaptations allow them to excel both in fishing and nurturing their young.
Their presence underscores the ecological richness of Delaware's diverse aquatic environments.
Red-throated Loon
Distinguished by its striking red throat patch during breeding season, the Red-throated Loon is a medium-sized diving bird that frequents Delaware's coastal waters in winter.
Adapted for underwater fishing with its sleek silhouette and pointed bill, it's often seen in small numbers.
Conservation is important as habitat loss and pollution threaten their migration routes and breeding grounds, making protection efforts essential.
Pacific Loons
Pacific Loons, known for their distinctive black-and-white checkered back pattern, are large diving birds that migrate seasonally between Arctic breeding sites and the Pacific coast.
These birds are skilled divers, plunging to great depths to catch fish. Their haunting calls resonate across the Arctic.
Conservation efforts are essential to protect these loons and maintain the health of their critical Arctic breeding grounds.
Atlantic Yellow-nosed Albatross
Although primarily found in the Southern Hemisphere, the Atlantic Yellow-nosed Albatross occasionally graces the coast of Delaware during its migration.
This seabird, with a wingspan of up to 7.5 feet, feeds on fish and squid.
Conservation efforts aim to mitigate threats like bycatch and habitat degradation, preserving these majestic flyers for future generations.
Their presence highlights global ecological connectivity and the importance of conservation concern.
Northern Fulmar
Moving north from the Atlantic Yellow-nosed Albatross, the Northern Fulmar is another remarkable seabird visiting Delaware's coastal waters during its migration. Originating from Arctic regions, this seabird displays a remarkable gliding flight over ocean expanses.
Adapted for marine life, they effortlessly scout for fish, squid, and other marine invertebrates, utilizing their extensive 39-43 inch wingspan to navigate and scavenge efficiently.
Trindade Petrel
The Trindade Petrel, a member of the Procellariidae family, is frequently observed off the coast of North America, showcasing its adept flying skills in pelagic environments.
As skilled oceanic flyers, these seabirds demonstrate unique behaviors and appearances that captivate birdwatchers.
Their wide distribution makes them a common sight during pelagic birding trips, adding to the allure of marine avian exploration.
Cory's Shearwater
Cory's Shearwater is recognized for its expansive wingspan of up to 112 inches, excelling in aerial maneuvers over the ocean. These oceanic flyers thrive in breeding colonies on remote islands, skillfully using their sharp beaks to catch fish and squid.
Noted for their distinctive calls, they are a remarkable sight during their far-reaching migrations across the Atlantic and Mediterranean seas.
Scopoli's Shearwater
Often encountered in the expansive offshore waters, Scopoli's Shearwater exhibits long and slender wings that facilitate its extensive foraging flights over the ocean.
A pelagic seabird, it breeds on Mediterranean islands, adeptly traversing vast distances to feed on fish and squid.
Conservation efforts are essential for mitigating threats from pollution and habitat loss, ensuring the survival of its populations.
Cape Verde Shearwater
Cape Verde Shearwaters are recognized for their sleek, dark upperparts contrasting with stark white underparts. They are a notable pelagic seabird species frequently observed off the North American coast.
They breed in the Cape Verde archipelago and excel in oceanic habitats. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect their breeding range and guarantee the sustainability of their populations during extensive migratory periods.
Bulwer's Petrel
Bulwer's Petrel, known for its elongated wings and strikingly dark coloring, is a common sight in the subtropical and tropical seas where it resides.
This seabird exhibits a unique behavior of hovering over waters to catch small fish and squid.
Found nesting in burrows on remote islands, conservation efforts are essential to protect them from threats like habitat destruction and invasive species.
Herring Gull
Herring Gulls, with a wingspan reaching up to 5 feet, are a prominent feature of Delaware's coastal landscape. These large birds are skilled scavengers, often spotted along beaches and estuaries feeding on a variety of food sources, including fish and human refuse.
They exhibit complex social behaviors, interacting loudly and distinctly within their colonies, showcasing their adaptability and opportunistic nature.
Great Black-backed Gull
The Great Black-backed Gull, recognized as the largest gull species globally, boasts an impressive wingspan of up to 5.5 feet and is a striking presence along the Delaware coastline.
Their distinctive pink legs and important behavior make them key players in coastal ecosystems, impacted by coastal development.
These gulls are essential in controlling seabird populations, maintaining balance within their habitat.
Northern Gannet
Northern Gannets, with their impressive six-foot wingspans, are renowned for their agile and dramatic plunge-diving behavior. These water birds that inhabit mainly in the North Atlantic, grace the United States' coasts, including Delaware.
Characterized by white bodies, black wingtips, and yellowish heads, they dive from heights up to 130 feet for fish, showcasing spectacular foraging skills in large breeding colonies on coastal cliffs.
Double-crested Cormorant
Shifting focus to another seabird found along Delaware's shores, the Double-crested Cormorant stands out with its long neck and distinctive hooked bill.
This large, dark waterbird is an adept diver, using its webbed feet to swim underwater in pursuit of fish.
Often seen drying its wings, the Double-crested Cormorant plays a vital role in maintaining balanced aquatic ecosystems, inhabiting both fresh and saltwater environments.
What Are Some Common Sea Birds That Can Also Be Found in Southwest Virginia?
Some common types of birds in southwest Virginia include the great blue heron, osprey, and laughing gull. These sea birds can also be found along the coast and waterways of the region. Their presence adds to the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of southwest Virginia.
Brown Pelican
Once nearly lost from Delaware's coasts, Brown Pelicans have made a triumphant return following environmental interventions. These large waterbirds, recognizable by their long bills and expansive throat pouches, now frequently grace the Delaware coast.
Their ability to dive from heights to snatch fish showcases a thrilling survival technique. The notable population increase highlights the success of dedicated conservation efforts.
