Manx Shearwater
Puffinus puffinus
Length 30-38cm

Distinctive, even at a distance. Flies low over water on stiffly held wings showing, alternately, almost black upperparts then white underparts as it banks and glides. Invariably seen in small to large groups, usually flying in long lines. Comes ashore to breed in rabbit burrows only after complete darkness has fallen. Breeding colonies found on remote islands off N and W coasts and presence indicated after dark by weird, wailing calls; colony on Skomer Island easiest to visit. Seen at sea from May to September off W coasts of Britain and Ireland; ferries to Scilly Isles and Ireland good for daytime sightings.