[4] The Pycroft's petrel is small, measuring 26 cm (10 in) in length and weighing between 112–198 g (4.0–7.0 oz).

[2] The breeding habitat of the Pycroft's petrel is temperate forests with soft soils on offshore islands.

The breeding season begins in October when birds return to their colony; laying is synchronised and happens between 21 November and 10 December.

The species is threatened by introduced rats, which prey on nesting eggs and nestlings.

Efforts to remove rats and other introduced predators from their breeding colonies have resulted in a recovery for this species, and its numbers are now increasing.