Black-browed Albatross vs Pied Cormorant
Thalassarche melanophris versus Phalacrocorax varius
Play a quiz with Black-browed Albatross and Pied Cormorant
Black-browed Albatross
Pied Cormorant
In short
The Black-browed Albatross and Pied Cormorant differ significantly in structure and habitat. The albatross is a large seabird with long wings adapted for gliding over open oceans, while the cormorant is a medium-sized bird often found near coastal waters and estuaries.
Identification tips
Look for the black eyebrow on the albatross and its larger size and wingspan. Observe the habitat: albatrosses are found over open oceans, cormorants near coasts. Note the flight style: albatrosses glide, cormorants flap and dive.
Size
The Black-browed Albatross is considerably larger than the Pied Cormorant, with a wingspan that can reach over twice the length of the cormorant's.
Plumage
The Black-browed Albatross features a distinctive black eyebrow contrasting with its white head, while the Pied Cormorant has a more uniform black and white plumage without such a striking facial feature.
Behaviour
Albatrosses are known for their soaring flight over open seas, rarely flapping their wings, whereas cormorants are strong swimmers, often seen diving for fish.
Habitat
Black-browed Albatrosses are typically found in open ocean environments, while Pied Cormorants are more commonly seen in coastal and estuarine habitats.