Craveri's Murrelet vs Swallow-tailed Gull

In short

Craveri's Murrelet and Swallow-tailed Gull are unlikely to be confused due to their distinct habitats and appearances. Craveri's Murrelet is a small, black-and-white alcid with dusky underwing coverts, while the Swallow-tailed Gull is a medium-sized gull with a distinctive forked tail and large eyes adapted for nocturnal foraging.

Identification tips

• Craveri's Murrelet: Look for a small, black-and-white bird with dusky underwing coverts and a dark spur on the breast sides. Often seen at sea.
• Swallow-tailed Gull: Note the medium size, forked tail, and large eyes. Typically found near cliffs or steep slopes, especially in the Galapagos.

Size

Craveri's Murrelet is much smaller than the Swallow-tailed Gull, which is a medium-sized gull.

Plumage

Craveri's Murrelet has a black face extending to just under the bill with a dark spur on the sides of the breast and dusky underwing coverts. The Swallow-tailed Gull is predominantly white with a gray back and a distinctive forked tail.

Behaviour

Craveri's Murrelet is often seen at sea, while the Swallow-tailed Gull is known for its nocturnal foraging habits and breeding on steep slopes or cliffs.

Habitat

Craveri's Murrelet is found in the Pacific Ocean, particularly around the Sea of Cortez, while the Swallow-tailed Gull breeds mainly on the Galapagos Islands and travels along the Pacific coast of South America.