BREAKING NEWS: GREAT-WINGED PETREL: MONTEREY BAY, AUGUST 26, 2011

Howdy, Birders,

Monterey's seabirds put on quite a show today! Shearwater Journeys' leader, Abe Borker along with Jeri Langham were loudly urging birders to "look at this bird" as a GREAT-WINGED PETREL (Pterodroma macroptera gouldi), raced from stern to bow at 10:45 a.m. The petrel flew toward the bow of the vessel while frantic photographers and birders managed to get stunning views and images. We raced after the bounding petrel for nearly six full minutes. No longer able to keep up, we stopped the boat and Wes Fritz laid out a mega-slick for this "mega" seabird. Although the slick produced some fine views of SABINE'S GULLS, the pterodroma did not return. About half of the birders on board were making their first, ever west coast pelagic trip. Others were local birders out enjoying the day. Two ladies celebrated their 50th birthdays. None of us was seeking anything special, nor any target seabirds.
Above, Abe Borker. One happy camper. Below, his images of the GREAT-WINGED PETREL. Copyright, Abe Borker. Please do not use without permission.

Above, Abe Borker, left and Jeri Langham, right, give the thumbs up for a great, great day! Jeri is a veteran of many Shearwater Journeys' pelagic trips. He is a professional tour leader for Victor Emanuel Nature Tours. It takes a team to pull off such a great day— from Wes' special oil, to Jennifer tearing up sardines, to Clay's moments of lending a lighter touch and to all of the fabulous birders on board— many, many thanks to everyone.

Petrels forever,

Debi Shearwater

Shearwater Journeys