Great Shearwater vs Balearic Shearwater

In short

The Great Shearwater and Balearic Shearwater can be distinguished by their size and plumage patterns. The Great Shearwater is larger with a distinctive dark cap and brown belly patch, while the Balearic Shearwater is smaller and lacks these bold markings.

Identification tips

1. Look for the dark cap and brown belly patch on the Great Shearwater. 2. Note the larger size of the Great Shearwater compared to the Balearic Shearwater. 3. Observe the more uniform brown plumage of the Balearic Shearwater. 4. Consider the location and season, as Great Shearwaters are more likely in the North Atlantic outside the breeding season, while Balearic Shearwaters are more Mediterranean-based.

Size

The Great Shearwater is noticeably larger than the Balearic Shearwater.

Plumage

Great Shearwaters have a dark cap and a brown belly patch with white underwings marked by variable brown markings. Balearic Shearwaters are more uniformly brown above and paler below without the distinct dark cap and belly patch.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit similar flight patterns typical of shearwaters, with long glides and few wingbeats.

Habitat

Great Shearwaters are often found in the North Atlantic during the non-breeding season, while Balearic Shearwaters are typically found in the Mediterranean and adjacent Atlantic waters.