Ilhéu da Praia: the World’s Only Home to the Monteiro’s Storm-Petrel

Some species exist across several continents. Others exist only on an 11-hectare rock in the middle of the Atlantic. Monteiro’s storm-petrel belongs to the second category — and that rock is Ilhéu da Praia.

An islet born from Caldeira da Graciosa

Located about 1.5 km off the coast of Vila da Praia, Ilhéu da Praia is a small basalt formation made of pyroclastic deposits and lava flows, resulting from the eruption of Caldeira da Graciosa. It covers just 11 hectares, with a 1.6 km perimeter and a maximum height of 51 metres.

The smallest and rarest seabird in the Azores

This is where Monteiro’s storm-petrel (Hydrobates monteiroi) nests, the only seabird species endemic to the Azores, just 18-20 cm long — about the size of a starling. The species was identified as distinct from Madeiran storm-petrel through its slightly different call, and is classified as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, with a total estimated population of 250 to 300 pairs.

Artificial nests that saved the species

In 2000 and 2001, artificial nests were installed on Ilhéu da Praia, allowing a remarkable increase in population size. Today, this islet is considered home to the world’s largest colony of Monteiro’s storm-petrels, with just over 100 pairs — alongside neighbouring Ilhéu de Baixo, the only other confirmed nesting site for the species.

A sanctuary for several seabird colonies

Besides Monteiro’s storm-petrel, the islet hosts colonies of Cory’s shearwater, roseate tern, common tern, Barolo shearwater, and Bulwer’s petrel. Two bat species also live here: Nyctalus azoreum, endemic to the Azores, and Pipistrellus maderensis, endemic to Macaronesia.

Planning your visit

• Access: the islet is classified as a Nature Reserve and part of the Graciosa Biosphere Reserve; landing is restricted and requires authorisation.
• Best way to see it: a boat trip around the islet, or observation from Vila da Praia.
• Nesting season: March to October.

Best time to visit

Summer brings more activity from the seabird colonies along Graciosa’s coast.

Nearby highlights

Vila da Praia, the island’s former municipal seat, offers the best starting point for viewing the islet from a distance.

After Ilhéu da Praia, explore Vila da Praia to round off your route along Graciosa’s east coast, an island that shares UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status.

Learn more about birdwatching in the Azores.

Learn more about the fauna of the Azores.