Barau's Petrel vs White-headed Petrel

In short

Barau's Petrel and White-headed Petrel are both medium-sized petrels, but they can be distinguished by their head and underwing patterns. Barau's Petrel has a more contrasting head pattern and distinct underwing markings compared to the more uniformly colored White-headed Petrel.

Identification tips

1. Head pattern: Look for the dark cap and eye patch on Barau's Petrel. 2. Underwing pattern: Barau's Petrel has a bold black and white underwing, while White-headed Petrel's underwing is more uniformly gray. 3. Geographic location: Consider the location; Barau's is more likely in the Indian Ocean, White-headed in the Southern Ocean.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of medium-sized petrels.

Plumage

Barau's Petrel has a white head with a distinctive dark cap and a contrasting dark eye patch. Its underwings show a bold black and white pattern. In contrast, the White-headed Petrel has a more uniformly pale head and less distinct underwing pattern, appearing more evenly gray.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit similar flight patterns typical of petrels, with gliding and flapping over open ocean waters.

Habitat

Both species are pelagic, spending most of their time over open ocean, but Barau's Petrel is more commonly associated with the Indian Ocean, particularly around Reunion Island, while White-headed Petrel is found in the Southern Ocean.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a reliable field mark for distinguishing these species at sea.