More Fiji Petrels Sighted

Three confirmed Fiji Petrels were sighted on NFMV’s second and CEPF-funded Fiji Petrel Pelagic Expedition.

NFMV’s second Fiji Petrel Pelagic Expedition of 2009 took place during a 2 week period over the new moon in October.

Three Fiji Petrels were confirmed during 11 days at sea at various locations 15-25 nautical miles off the coast of Gau. New Zealand’s foremost petrel specialist, Dr Mike Imber joined the team with NFMV life-member, Joerg Kretzschmar, taking up the important job as photographer.

Fiji Petrels spend all their life at sea except when they return to Gau (Photo: Hadoram Shirihai) to breed
Fiji Petrels spend all their life at sea except when they return to Gau (Photo: Hadoram Shirihai) to breed

The weather was less benign than in May with two days lost to rough weather and four days when it was too calm and hot – which did not appear to suit the petrels.

First at sea photos of the Fiji Petrel were taken as recently as 2009 in an NFMV-organised expedition. 
First at sea photos of the Fiji Petrel were taken as recently as 2009 in an NFMV-organised expedition.

A strong southerly migration of Mottled Petrels and Cook’s Petrels was one of the highlights of the time at sea. The Expedition was a component of the Critical Ecosystem Partnership funded Fiji Petrel Project.

Who discovered whom? A young Dr. Watling with the Fiji petrel that showed him that there was still hope, in 1984.
Who discovered whom? A young Dr. Watling with the Fiji petrel that showed him that there was still hope, in 1984.

In all, eleven Fiji Petrels were seen on the two Expeditions this year.

Project Leader, Dick Watling, is now evaluating the results of the expedition in view of plans for next year.

November 7, 2009March 14, 20150
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