Black-legged Kittiwake vs Red-billed Chough

In short

The Black-legged Kittiwake and the Red-billed Chough are distinct in both appearance and habitat. The kittiwake is a seabird with a white body and black wingtips, while the chough is a crow-like bird with a glossy black plumage and a striking red bill. These differences are usually sufficient for identification.

Identification tips

1. Bill color: Kittiwakes have black bills, while choughs have red bills. 2. Leg color: Kittiwakes have black legs; choughs have red legs. 3. Habitat: Look for kittiwakes near the sea and choughs in upland areas. 4. Plumage: Note the kittiwake's white body and black wingtips versus the chough's all-black plumage.

Size

The Black-legged Kittiwake is a medium-sized gull, whereas the Red-billed Chough is a crow-sized bird.

Plumage

The kittiwake has a white body with gray wings and black wingtips, while the chough is entirely glossy black with a distinctive red bill and legs.

Behaviour

Kittiwakes are often seen in large flocks near coastal waters, whereas choughs are more often found in pairs or small groups, foraging on the ground in open areas.

Habitat

Black-legged Kittiwakes are typically found in marine environments, nesting on cliffs. Red-billed Choughs prefer upland areas, including cliffs and coastal heaths, but are more terrestrial.

Voice

Kittiwakes have a high-pitched, repetitive 'kitti-wake' call. Choughs have a distinctive, loud, and clear 'chee-ow' call.