Hawaiian Petrel vs White-chinned Petrel

In short

The Hawaiian Petrel and White-chinned Petrel are both large seabirds, but they can be distinguished by their bill color and chin markings. The Hawaiian Petrel has a dark bill and lacks the distinctive white chin of the White-chinned Petrel, which has a pale bill and a white chin patch.

Identification tips

1. Look for the white chin patch on the White-chinned Petrel, absent in the Hawaiian Petrel. 2. Note the bill color: pale in White-chinned, dark in Hawaiian. 3. Observe behavior: White-chinned Petrels often follow ships. 4. Consider location: Hawaiian Petrels are found in the Pacific, while White-chinned Petrels are in the Southern Ocean.

Size

Both species are large petrels, but the White-chinned Petrel is generally bulkier with a more robust build.

Plumage

The Hawaiian Petrel has a dark upper body and white underparts, while the White-chinned Petrel is mostly dark with a distinctive white chin patch. The Hawaiian Petrel lacks any white on the chin.

Behaviour

Both species are pelagic and often found far from land, but the White-chinned Petrel is more likely to be seen following ships.

Habitat

Hawaiian Petrels breed in the Hawaiian Islands, while White-chinned Petrels breed on subantarctic islands and are found in the Southern Ocean.

Voice

Vocalizations are not well-documented for field identification, but the Hawaiian Petrel is known for its eerie, moaning calls at breeding sites.