Polynesian storm petrel
Introduction


The **Polynesian storm petrel** (***Nesofregetta fuliginosa***) is a species of [seabird](/wiki/Seabird "Seabird") in the family [Oceanitidae](/wiki/Oceanitidae "Oceanitidae"). It is the only species placed in the [genus](/wiki/Genus "Genus") ***Nesofregetta***. This species is markedly [polymorphic](/wiki/Polymorphism_%28biology%29 "Polymorphism (biology)"), consisting of several [subspecies](/wiki/Subspecies "Subspecies"). At one time the light\-colored variety were even considered a species on their own (white\-throated storm\-petrel). However, subspecies are not generally accepted today.

Polynesian Storm\-petrels can weigh anywhere from  and can be as tall as . They are identifiable by their black bills, broad, round wings, and black feet. Some of the Polynesian Storm\-petrels vary in regards to the white on their stomach, but can be identifiable through that as well. They can also be identified through their zig\-zag flight patterns and their forked tail. Polynesian Storm\-petrels nest in burrows they create on their nesting islands. The burrows are typically around vegetation or in rock crevices. The Polynesian Storm\-petrel's natural [habitats](/wiki/Habitat "Habitat") are open [seas](/wiki/Sea "Sea"), rocky shores, and sandy shores.


What is the Polynesian storm petrel?