General
Manx Shearwater: Small shearwater with brown-black upperparts and white underparts, underwings and undertail coverts. Black head is darker than back. Bill is dark. Wings are long, slim, and straight. Tail is short and pointed. Sexes are similar.
Range and Habitat
Manx Shearwater: This species breeds on the northern coasts of North America from Alaska to northern Washington and from Newfoundland to Rhode Island. It is an uncommon visitor off the Pacific Coast from Alaska to southern California. This species is pelagic, coming ashore only to breed. Winters along the Atlantic Coast from North Carolina to Florida.
Breeding and Nesting
Manx Shearwater: One white egg is laid in a burrow or rock crevice. Incubation ranges from 52 to 54 days and is carried out by both parents.
Foraging and Feeding
Manx Shearwater: Feeds on small fish and shellfish; forages on the surface and by plunge diving.
Vocalization
Manx Shearwater: On breeding grounds makes raucous, coughing calls, especially when in colonies.
Similar Species
Manx Shearwater: Audubon's Shearwater has a longer tail and dark undertail coverts.