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Journal of Experimental Biology 37,330-338 (1960)
Published by Company of Biologists 1960

Gliding Flight of the Fulmar Petrel

C. J. PENNYCUICK ¹

¹ Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge

1. The basis used for estimating lift and drag coefficients is explained. A method of obtaining a photograph of a bird flying at known airspeed and rate of sink is described.

2. 96% of the speed measurements fall between 22 and 65 ft./sec., the average being 40 ft./sec.

3. A maximum lift coefficient of 1.8 can be achieved. Wing area is reduced with increasing speed.

4. The feet are used as airbrakes.

5. A comparison of the minimum drag coefficient (0.06) with the maximum estimated power output of the pectoral muscles leaves only a narrow margin of power available for climbing.

6. The performance diagram gives a minimum gliding angle of 1 in 8, and a minimum sinking speed of just under 4 ft./sec.

7. The fulmar has apparently sacrificed the ability to soar dynamically over the sea in order to be able to fly slowly and thus utilize light upcurrents at cliff faces.

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