Erect-crested Penguin vs Auckland Islands Shag

The most reliable field mark to distinguish the Erect-crested Penguin from the Auckland Islands Shag is their structure: penguins have a more upright posture and lack the long neck and wings of shags. Additionally, the Erect-crested Penguin has a distinctive crest, while the Auckland Islands Shag does not.

Look for the yellow crest on the Erect-crested Penguin's head and its upright, waddling posture. Contrast this with the Auckland Islands Shag's elongated neck and ability to fly.

Erect-crested Penguins are generally more robust and have a stockier build compared to the more elongated body and longer neck of the Auckland Islands Shag.

Erect-crested Penguins have a distinctive yellow crest on their heads, which is absent in the Auckland Islands Shag.

Erect-crested Penguins are flightless and move by waddling on land, while Auckland Islands Shags are capable of flight and often seen swimming or diving.

Erect-crested Penguins are typically found on rocky subantarctic islands, whereas Auckland Islands Shags are more likely to be seen around coastal waters and cliffs of the Auckland Islands.