Flesh-footed Shearwater vs Black-vented Shearwater

In short

The Flesh-footed Shearwater and Black-vented Shearwater can be distinguished by the color of their underwings and bills. Flesh-footed Shearwaters have pale pink bills with a dark tip, while Black-vented Shearwaters have dark bills. Underwing coloration is also a key difference: Flesh-footed Shearwaters have pale underwings, whereas Black-vented Shearwaters have darker underwings.

Identification tips

1. Look for the bill color: Flesh-footed has a pale pink bill with a dark tip; Black-vented has a dark bill. 2. Check the underwing coloration: Flesh-footed has pale underwings; Black-vented has darker underwings. 3. Consider the size and bulk: Flesh-footed is larger and bulkier. 4. Observe the habitat: Flesh-footed is more oceanic, Black-vented is more coastal.

Size

Flesh-footed Shearwaters are generally larger and bulkier than Black-vented Shearwaters.

Plumage

Flesh-footed Shearwaters have a uniform dark brown plumage with pale underwings, while Black-vented Shearwaters have a more contrasting appearance with darker underwings and a paler belly.

Behaviour

Both species are often seen gliding low over the water, but specific behavioral differences are not well-documented.

Habitat

Flesh-footed Shearwaters are typically found in open oceanic waters, while Black-vented Shearwaters are more coastal, often seen near the shore.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a reliable field mark for distinguishing these species, as both are generally silent at sea.