Common name: Zinos Petrel.

Scientific name: Pterodroma madeira (Mathews, 1934)

Family: Procelariidae

Distribution and Habitat: This seriously endangered endemic species occurs exclusively in the Madeira Island. Pelagic bird that spends most of its time in the sea and returns to land to nest between the 2 highest peaks, Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo. Due to the importance of this bird, this area was considered special protection zone and integrated in the Rede Natura 2000.

Description: Dark upperparts of the body and white underparts. The wings interior is dark. It distinguishes itself from other birds through its flight form, drawing a distinct V.

Conservation statute and Threats: This marine bird is endangered at a world scale, and its population is estimated to be of about 30 reproducing couples. With the purpose of preserving this species, a program Conservation of Zino´s Petrel through restoration of its Habitat was created by the Natural Park of Madeira. The actual state of conservation of this species is strongly due to the mammal predators introduced, namely the house rat (Rattus rattus) and the feral cat (Felis catus), and the loss of its habitat is due to its degradation by presence of herbivorous.

Observations: Some action is being taken in order to promote awareness within the population and to inform it of the group work needed for the preservation of this species and its habitat.

Related Link: Zinos Petrel - Sounds (external link)