Calonectris diomedea
August 30, 1997: Oregon Inlet Pelagic-Gulf Stream, Dare, NC
The second species of large shearwater we saw turned out to be even more plentiful than the Greater Shearwaters. As with the Greaters, by the end of the day I was able to identify the Cory’s from a reasonable distance by their generally uniform appearance and a general sense of their flying style with slower wingbeats. Numerous Cory’s were also in the large flock we saw in the afternoon, so I was able to see several at quite close range.
May 23, 1998: Hatteras Pelagic-Gulf Stream, Dare, NC
Certainly the most abundant true pelagic seen today, we saw lots of these throughout the day, including at least three who came very near the boat, giving wonderful close looks.
Let me know what you think!