Ivory Gull vs Pink-footed Shearwater

Ivory Gulls and Pink-footed Shearwaters are both seabirds but differ significantly in appearance and habitat. The Ivory Gull is entirely white with a stout bill and short legs, while the Pink-footed Shearwater has a more typical shearwater appearance with brownish plumage and pink feet. They occupy different habitats, with the Ivory Gull favoring pack ice and the Pink-footed Shearwater nesting in burrows on islands.

Ivory Gull: Look for a pure white bird with a stout bill and short legs, often seen in icy habitats. Pink-footed Shearwater: Identify by its brownish plumage and pink feet, typically seen over open ocean waters. These species are rarely confused in the field due to their distinct habitats and plumage.

Ivory Gulls are smaller and more compact compared to the larger, more elongated Pink-footed Shearwaters.

Ivory Gulls are pure white, which is a stark contrast to the Pink-footed Shearwater's brownish plumage with a paler underbelly.

Ivory Gulls are aggressive feeders often seen foraging in pack ice, while Pink-footed Shearwaters forage over open water, often in association with other marine predators.

Ivory Gulls are typically found in Arctic pack ice regions, whereas Pink-footed Shearwaters are found near the continental shelf and offshore waters, especially during breeding.