Vertebrate Zoology - V. M. Konstantinov 2011

Chordates
Terrestrial, or Tetrapod, Vertebrates — Amniotes
Class Birds — Subclass Fan-tailed Birds, or Modern Birds — Superorder Neognathae, or Typical Birds — Order Procellariiformes, or Tubenoses

Procellariiformes are oceanic birds (comprising 4 families and over 100 species) that superficially resemble gulls, yet are easily distinguished from them (as well as from all other birds) by their nostrils, which open on the sides of the bill at the ends of distinctive tubular structures. The bill is elongated, ending in a small hook. The feet are webbed, connecting the three front toes. All Procellariiformes are exceptional fliers. They spend the vast majority of their time soaring over the open ocean, gathering near coasts only during the breeding season. They feed on aquatic animals, which they catch either while swimming or by snatching them from the Water's surface on the wing. They nest on coastal shores, laying a single egg that is incubated in turns by both parents for about two months. Development follows the altricial (nestling) pattern. They are distributed across all oceans, though predominantly in the Southern Hemisphere. A typical representative is the wandering albatross (Diomedea exulans, see Fig. 145). In the northern seas of Russia, the northern fulmar (Fulmarus glacialis) is common, while the seas of the Russian Far East are home to smaller storm-petrel species (Oceanodroma spp.).

13 species are listed in the IUCN Red List.