Giant Petrel

The Giant Petrel is the largest of all the 14 Petrel species we have in Kaikōura, reaching sizes similar to the lesser albatross or Mollymawks. With a wing span of almost 2 meters long, these pelagic birds are a sight to behold.

They get their names from the Christian saint Peter, who was known to have walked on water. These magnificent birds will look as though they are running on water as they take flight and can hover close to the water's edge when gliding tha, which gives the effect of them walking on water, similar to what Peter did.

Known as the vultures of the ocean, they are often seen patrolling the coast in search of scraps or other animals' prey in order to scavenge themselves and feed.

There are two subspecies, the Giant Northern and Giant Southern Petrel, which look almost identical in their adult form apart from a small colour difference on their beaks. Fierce-looking creatures are fighters and will leave most other birds in their wake when it comes to feeding on dead animals.