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Observers: 1
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Location pin not exact, we were moving from Jose Ramon Shoal to Raggedy Cay, NW of Southwest Cay. Clear, sunny, winds approx 10-15+ kts E, seas 1-2 ft. Due to being on a time schedule for our dives I was not able to stop or pursue the bird at all. Other birds seen in the same general area during the morning were 2 likely BRTE heading out to sea, a MAFR near a fishing boat, and several BRPE on Raggedy Cay.
Pretty sure this was a shearwater due to flight style (close to the waters surface, high arcing flight), and seemingly large size, with long and rather broad wings. The coloration appeared to be completely brown (with blondish tones- worn?) dorsally with lighter/white around the throat but didn't get a ventral view. I believe (though I could be wrong), that any other expected seabirds such as boobies, jaegers or terns do not use the same dynamic soaring flight style so would be eliminated purely on that behavior. Though I picked it up initially with naked eye, the bird was at some distance (just below horizon) and was flying N as we were (quickly) heading E. Viewing conditions were difficult due to swell, boat movement, distance, but very intriguing sighting.
Details
Pretty sure this was a shearwater due to flight style (close to the waters surface, high arcing flight), and seemingly large size, with long and rather broad wings. The coloration appeared to be completely brown (with blondish tones- worn?) dorsally with lighter/white around the throat but didn't get a ventral view. I believe (though I could be wrong), that any other expected seabirds such as boobies, jaegers or terns do not use the same dynamic soaring flight style so would be eliminated purely on that behavior. Though I picked it up initially with naked eye, the bird was at some distance (just below horizon) and was flying N as we were (quickly) heading E. Viewing conditions were difficult due to swell, boat movement, distance, but very intriguing sighting.