Cory’s Shearwater

Irish Name:	Cánóg Cory
Scientific name:	Calonectris diomedia
Bird Family:	Tubenoses

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Conservation status

Status

Passage migrant in variable numbers off southern and western coasts from July to October.

Identification

The largest shearwater species seen in Irish waters, being almost twice the size of the much commoner Manx Shearwater. Like that species, Cory's Shearwater has white underparts. The upperparts (head, back and rump) are a light brown while the wings are a contrasting darker brown/black. At close range and in good light, the large yellow bill can be seen. Distinguishable from Manx Shearwater almost on flight-style, having a much more relaxed flight action which includes long glides on bowed wings interspersed with only a few slow flaps of the wings. In poor conditions, confusion with Fulmar (similar size and flight action) is possible.

Voice

Silent on migration

Diet

Cory’s Shearwaters mainly feed on fish such as Herring, as well as squid and crabs. Will take offal disposed from fishing vessels.

Breeding

Cory's Shearwater breeds in large colonies on inaccessible islands in the Mediterranean, as well as the Canary Islands. In recent years, single individuals have been recorded at Manx Shearwater colonies in Ireland and could potentially breed in Ireland.

Wintering

Winters on the open ocean of the South Atlantic and (rarely) the Mediterranean.

Monitored by

SeaTrack.

Only likely to be seen on dedicated “seawatches” from coastal headlands in Counties Cork and Clare . Cape Clear, Galley Head and the Bridges of Ross are among the best sites to see Cory’s Shearwater in Ireland. The numbers observed fluctuate from year to year, with peak counts usually in early to mid August.