: Breeds. Apr-Oct on a limited number of islands, notably Great Duck Island which supports a colony of at least several hundred pairs. Seen on 40-50% of the whalewatch cruises that include the ‘East Bumps' - less than 20% of the cruises that don't - and then typically only one or two individuals as, unlike Wilson's Storm-Petrel, normal daytime foraging occurs outside the standard whalewatch cruise range.
Migration: Uncertain as migration takes place and at a time when few observers are present. Some fledglings remain in their burrows into Nov and there is an early Jan record.
Miscellany: Leach's Storm-Petrel return to their island nesting ground at night and the returning birds utter a chattering call while flying overhead, answered by a purring call from their underground mates. It's an eerie and wonderful soundscape. Listen here.
Last Reviewed: June 25th, 2026