Synopsis

The bird’s name derives from its cry, reminiscent of a cat’s meow. From spring through summer, petrels congregate around shrines along the coast of Hachinohe, in Aomori, to breed. Approximately thirty thousand gather there. Many visitors come to witness the vast flocks that darken the sky. An American who now resides in Aomori Prefecture brought his family to Japan, drawn by a fondness for these seabirds. Locals say the petrels’ annual return signals the true arrival of spring. Over three days,