Desertas Petrels Chase Hurricanes for Survival

A groundbreaking study published in Current Biology has revealed that Desertas Petrels, a rare seabird species in the North Atlantic, actively chase tropical cyclones for foraging benefits. Led by Francesco Ventura from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI), the research tracked these birds during hurricane season, finding that one-third followed cyclones for days, covering thousands of kilometers. The study showed that the petrels strategically use large-scale wind patterns for travel and adapt their behavior to avoid wing injuries during strong winds. Remarkably, none of the tracked birds were harmed, and no nest desertion occurred. The cyclones’ wakes enhance foraging conditions by increasing ocean mixing and prey abundance, providing ecological benefits. This research highlights the adaptability of Desertas Petrels and offers insights into the impact of extreme weather on marine ecosystems, which is crucial for conservation amid climate change. The study was authored by Sibu Kumar Tripathi and published on July 10, 2024.