One of the most critical phases in the life of petrels is at fledging when young birds pass from parental dependence on land to an independent life at sea. To mitigate mortality at this time, rescue programs are implemented near breeding sites around the world, especially for birds grounded by artificial lights. This study evaluated the plumage and body condition of short-tailed shearwater fledglings captured at colonies just before departure in comparison to fledglings washed up on beaches...