Grey-headed Albatross vs Black-bellied Storm-Petrel

The Grey-headed Albatross and Black-bellied Storm-Petrel are distinct in size and appearance, with the albatross being much larger and having a grey head, while the storm-petrel is smaller with a distinctive black belly stripe. Both species inhabit cold southern waters but differ in their breeding and foraging habits.

Look for the size difference: the albatross is much larger. Note the grey head of the albatross versus the black belly stripe of the storm-petrel. Observe the habitat: the albatross may be seen near breeding islands, while the storm-petrel is more likely in sub-Antarctic waters.

The Grey-headed Albatross is significantly larger than the Black-bellied Storm-Petrel.

The Grey-headed Albatross has a grey head and less distinctive plumage, while the Black-bellied Storm-Petrel is generally grayish or blackish above with a bold black central belly stripe.

Both species prefer colder waters, but the Grey-headed Albatross breeds on scattered islands in the southern oceans, while the Black-bellied Storm-Petrel is a true sub-Antarctic breeder.