Monterey Bay 21-28 Sept 2007

In 2006, there were no credible, documented reports of Least Storm-Petrels in Monterey Bay, but this year some have appeared. At least 6 were seen on 28 Sep 2007, including this bird. Besides the tiny size, note that Least's long wings, short tail, high and deep wingbeats, and black plumage all suggest a mini Black Storm-Petrel rather than an Ashy Storm-Petrel, molting individuals of which (with short tails) are often mistaken for Least. As a rule: If you think you MIGHT be seeing a Least, you're not - it's usually "obvious."