Herring Gull vs Black-capped Petrel

In short

The Herring Gull and Black-capped Petrel are distinct in both appearance and behavior. The Herring Gull is a large, robust gull with a pale gray back, while the Black-capped Petrel is a medium-sized seabird with a distinctive black cap and white underparts. Observing their flight patterns and habitats can quickly help differentiate them.

Identification tips

1. Location: If you're near the coast or in urban areas, it's likely a Herring Gull; far offshore, consider Black-capped Petrel. 2. Flight pattern: Herring Gulls have a more direct flight with steady wingbeats, while Black-capped Petrels exhibit a more erratic, gliding flight. 3. Plumage details: Look for the black cap and white rump of the Black-capped Petrel versus the Herring Gull's pale gray back and pink legs.

Size

The Herring Gull is larger and bulkier compared to the more streamlined and smaller Black-capped Petrel.

Plumage

Herring Gulls have a pale gray back and white underparts with pink legs and a yellow bill. In contrast, Black-capped Petrels have a striking black cap, white underparts, and a dark upperwing with a white rump.

Behaviour

Herring Gulls are often seen scavenging near shores or human settlements, while Black-capped Petrels are typically observed gliding over open ocean waters.

Habitat

Herring Gulls are commonly found along coastlines, beaches, and urban areas, whereas Black-capped Petrels are pelagic, spending most of their time far out at sea.

Voice

Herring Gulls have a loud, raucous call, often described as a 'laughing' sound. Black-capped Petrels are generally silent at sea, with vocalizations mainly heard at breeding colonies.