Great Shearwater vs Black-vented Shearwater

In short

The Great Shearwater and Black-vented Shearwater can be differentiated by their plumage and geographic range. The Great Shearwater has a distinctive dark cap and brown belly-patch, while the Black-vented Shearwater is more uniformly dark above with a paler belly. Observing these birds in their typical habitats can also aid identification.

Identification tips

1. Look for the dark cap and brown belly-patch on the Great Shearwater. 2. Note the more uniformly dark upperparts of the Black-vented Shearwater. 3. Consider the geographic location: Great Shearwater is more likely in the North Atlantic, while Black-vented Shearwater is found in the Pacific.

Size

Great Shearwater is generally larger than the Black-vented Shearwater.

Plumage

Great Shearwater has a dark cap and brown belly-patch, with a white underwing marked by variable brown markings. Black-vented Shearwater is more uniformly dark above with a paler belly and lacks the distinct cap and belly-patch.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit similar flight patterns typical of shearwaters, with long glides and stiff-winged flight.

Habitat

Great Shearwater is often found in the North Atlantic during non-breeding season, while Black-vented Shearwater is primarily found in the Pacific, particularly off the coast of California and Baja California.