Bunger Hills, 1999/2000 survey - nest sites of snow petrels Pagodroma nivea

The snow petrel (Pagodroma nivea) is the most common bird of the Bunger Hills, with an estimated population of 1000 breeding pairs in colonies of up to 50 pairs dispersed widely throughout the southern Bunger Hills at altitudes between 25 and 155 m above sea level. About 70% of nests are located in cavities and cracks in bedrock on hills and ridges, while 30% breed under or between large boulders. Nest sites are chosen to be protected from snow accumulation and strong winds.