The fork-tailed storm petrel is small seabird that is 20 cm in length with a wingspan of 46 cm.
Its foraging behaviour resembles other storm petrels, where it flies with short, stiff wingbeats close to the surface of the water.

Despite its name, the forked tail in this bird is not always visible.
The distinguishing feature of fork-tailed storm petrels is their overall bluish-gray plumage.
They generally have a paler underside, which contrasts the darker colours under their wings.
They also have a dark gray forehead, a black ear patch, and a small, black bill.
Other storm petrels are significantly darker, such as the similar looking ashy storm petrel.
However, fork-tailed storm petrels from southern populations are somewhat darker than those in the north.

Males and females of this species are generally very similar in colour and size.
Juveniles also resemble adults with the exception of having a less noticeable notch in their tails.
The fork-tailed storm petrel is small seabird that is 20 cm in length with a wingspan of 46 cm. Its foraging behaviour resembles other storm petrels, where it flies with short, stiff wingbeats close to the surface of the water.
Despite its name, the forked tail in this bird is not always visible. The distinguishing feature of fork-tailed storm petrels is their overall bluish-gray plumage. They generally have a paler underside, which contrasts the darker colours under their wings. They also have a dark gray forehead, a black ear patch, and a small, black bill. Other storm petrels are significantly darker, such as the similar looking ashy storm petrel. However, fork-tailed storm petrels from southern populations are somewhat darker than those in the north.
Males and females of this species are generally very similar in colour and size. Juveniles also resemble adults with the exception of having a less noticeable notch in their tails.
Fork-tailed storm petrel