Jouanin's Petrel vs Wedge-tailed Shearwater

In short

Jouanin's Petrel and the dark morph of the Wedge-tailed Shearwater can be confused due to their similar dark plumage and wedge-shaped tails. The key difference lies in the size and bill structure: the Wedge-tailed Shearwater is larger with a heavier bill. Observers should also note the pale bar on the upperwing-coverts of Jouanin's Petrel.

Identification tips

1. Look for the pale bar on the upperwing-coverts of Jouanin's Petrel. 2. Note the size and bill: Wedge-tailed Shearwater is larger with a heavier bill. 3. Observe behavior: Wedge-tailed Shearwaters glide with stiff wingbeats and are often in large flocks. 4. Consider location and season, as both species can be present in the same seas.

Size

Wedge-tailed Shearwater is larger and bulkier than Jouanin's Petrel.

Plumage

Both species are dark, but Jouanin's Petrel usually shows a weak pale bar on the upperwing-coverts, which the Wedge-tailed Shearwater lacks.

Behaviour

Wedge-tailed Shearwaters often glide with stiff wingbeats and are seen in large flocks, while Jouanin's Petrel is less commonly seen in such numbers.

Habitat

Both species share warm tropical waters, but Wedge-tailed Shearwaters are more often seen from shore and in association with feeding flocks.