Cory's Shearwater (Calonectris borealis), Tenerife/La Gomera, Canary Islands

---

This large shearwater is a summer visitor to the Canary Islands. Based on genetical, morphological and ecological differences with respect to the very similar Scopoli's Shearwater (Calonectris diomedea) that breeds in the Mediterranean Sea, the Cory's Shearwater is now recognized as a full species. The Cory's Shearwater has more black under its wings and is slightly larger than the Scopoli's Shearwater, and also has a slightly heavier beak. These differences are best assessed by photographs taken in suitable light conditions. Shearwaters are relatively long-lived ocean-dwelling seabirds, coming to land only for breeding purposes. These pelagic birds often nest in numbers in their colonies, where they are very noisy at night with their far-carrying guttural eerie calls.

---

Size: 4672px × 3104px
Location: Tenerife / La Gomera, Canary Islands
Photo credit: © Paul Harris / Alamy / Afripics
License: Royalty Free
Model Released: No

Keywords: bird, canary, cory, islands, long-lived, oceanic, pelagic, shearwater, summer, visitor