Black Storm-Petrel vs Least Storm-Petrel

In short

The Black Storm-Petrel and Least Storm-Petrel are both small, dark seabirds, but they can be distinguished by size and flight style. The Black Storm-Petrel is notably larger and has a more languid flight compared to the smaller, faster-flapping Least Storm-Petrel.

Identification tips

1. Size: Look for the larger size of the Black Storm-Petrel. 2. Flight Style: Note the slower, more buoyant flight of the Black Storm-Petrel versus the rapid, fluttering flight of the Least Storm-Petrel. 3. Plumage Tone: In good lighting, the Black Storm-Petrel may appear slightly browner.

Size

The Black Storm-Petrel is larger, with a wingspan up to 20% greater than the Least Storm-Petrel.

Plumage

Both species are all-dark, but the Black Storm-Petrel may appear slightly browner in good light.

Behaviour

The Black Storm-Petrel exhibits a slower, more buoyant flight, while the Least Storm-Petrel has rapid, fluttering wingbeats.

Habitat

Both species are found in similar oceanic habitats, often near breeding islands in the Gulf of California.