The smallest of Malta’s breeding seabirds, this species is only slightly larger than a sparrow. It has relatively long, narrow wings and a square-ended tail. The plumage is entirely sooty black, except for a striking snow-white rump that extends along the sides. A broad white band is also visible under the wing in flight. The bill is slender, black, and slightly curved, with distinctive tube-like nostrils. The feet are webbed. Males and females look alike, although females are slightly larger on average.

Its flight is fluttering and low over the sea surface, often appearing to ‘hover’ while searching for floating food. It is rarely seen from land, as it spends most of its life far out at sea. This species typically lives for over 20 years, with the oldest recorded individual in Malta reaching 32 years.

The European Storm-petrel is a breeding visitor to Malta. Most individuals remain in the Mediterranean throughout the year, while part of the population migrates to the Atlantic Ocean after the breeding season.

In Malta, the breeding population is mainly concentrated on the small island of Filfla, which holds an estimated 5,000–8,000 pairs. This represents around 50% of the Mediterranean population, which is recognised as a distinct subspecies (Hydrobates pelagicus melitensis).