European Storm-Petrel vs Northern Fulmar

The European Storm-Petrel and Northern Fulmar are both seabirds but differ significantly in size and appearance. The Storm-Petrel is much smaller with a fluttering flight, while the Fulmar is larger with a more robust build and gliding flight. These differences are key for identification in the field.

1. Size and Flight: Look for the small size and fluttering flight of the Storm-Petrel versus the larger size and gliding flight of the Fulmar. 2. Plumage: Note the dark plumage with a white rump on the Storm-Petrel compared to the light gray or white plumage of the Fulmar. 3. Habitat: Consider the location; Storm-Petrels are more oceanic, while Fulmars can be seen near cliffs and coastal areas. 4. Vocalization: Listen for the purring calls of Storm-Petrels at night near colonies, contrasting with the generally silent Fulmar at sea.

The European Storm-Petrel is much smaller, about the size of a sparrow, whereas the Northern Fulmar is larger, comparable to a gull.

European Storm-Petrels are uniformly dark with a white rump, while Northern Fulmars have a more varied plumage, often light gray or white with darker wingtips.

European Storm-Petrels exhibit a fluttering flight close to the water, often pattering on the surface. Northern Fulmars have a more powerful, gliding flight and are less likely to be seen pattering.

Both species are pelagic, but European Storm-Petrels are more often found in open ocean environments, while Northern Fulmars can be seen closer to shore, especially during the breeding season.

European Storm-Petrels are known for their distinctive purring calls, especially at night near breeding colonies. Northern Fulmars are generally silent at sea but can be noisy at colonies.