Black-bellied Storm-Petrel vs Leach's Storm-Petrel

In short

The Black-bellied Storm-Petrel is best identified by its bold black central belly stripe, though this can be hard to see against dark water. Leach's Storm-Petrel lacks this stripe and has a more forked tail. Both species are small, dark storm-petrels with white rumps, but their habitat preferences differ significantly.

Identification tips

1. Look for the bold black central belly stripe on Black-bellied Storm-Petrel, though it may be difficult to see. 2. Note the tail shape: Leach's Storm-Petrel has a more forked tail. 3. Consider the habitat: Black-bellied prefers colder waters, while Leach's is more northern. 4. Observe flight style: Black-bellied skips off waves, Leach's has an erratic flight.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of small storm-petrels.

Plumage

Black-bellied Storm-Petrel has a distinctive black central belly stripe and darker upperparts, while Leach's Storm-Petrel lacks the belly stripe and has a more uniform dark plumage with a white rump.

Behaviour

Black-bellied Storm-Petrel is known for its unique foraging behavior, skipping off waves using one leg. Leach's Storm-Petrel typically has a more erratic flight pattern.

Habitat

Black-bellied Storm-Petrel prefers colder, sub-Antarctic waters, while Leach's Storm-Petrel is found in more temperate northern oceans.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a reliable field mark for these species as they are rarely heard at sea.