The Sooty Shearwater may be the most abundant seabird in the world, with a global population estimated at over 20 million birds. It makes one of the longest migrations ever tracked — a figure-eight circuit of the Pacific Ocean covering over 40,000 miles. In late summer, millions appear off both coasts of North America in enormous offshore flocks.
Best time to see a Sooty Shearwater
The best time to see a Sooty Shearwater is May–August, when about 71% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 1,705 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Sooty Shearwater? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Sooty Shearwater sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Sooty Shearwater?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.