UK Wildlife

Leach's Storm Petrel Remote Island Breeder

Leach's storm petrel is a rare UK breeding bird, nesting mainly on remote Scottish islands, with an eerie churring call heard at night at breeding colonies.

Key Facts

Leach's storm petrel UK breeding population around 40,000-50,000 pairs on remote islands
Main breeding sites at St Kilda, Flannan Isles and North Rona
Distinguished from storm petrel by forked tail and different flight action
Visits breeding colonies only at night to avoid predation
Winters on tropical Atlantic oceans, rarely seen from shore

Welfare Considerations

Leach's petrel conservation is challenging due to remote breeding sites. Rat-free status is essential for breeding success. St Kilda's UNESCO World Heritage status provides some protection. Storm-blown birds reaching shore are often exhausted and need rescue.

What You Can Do

Support remote island conservation through RSPB and island management trusts
Record any inshore storm petrel sightings through BTO Birdtrack
Support marine conservation in tropical Atlantic wintering areas