Kelp Gull vs Wedge-rumped Storm-Petrel
Larus dominicanus versus Hydrobates tethys
Play a quiz with Kelp Gull and Wedge-rumped Storm-Petrel
Kelp Gull
Wedge-rumped Storm-Petrel
In short
The Kelp Gull and Wedge-rumped Storm-Petrel are easily distinguished by size and habitat. The Kelp Gull is a large, robust gull, while the Wedge-rumped Storm-Petrel is a small seabird. Their contrasting environments—coastal areas for the gull and open ocean for the storm-petrel—further aid identification.
Identification tips
Size and habitat are the most reliable identifiers: the Kelp Gull's large size and coastal presence contrast sharply with the small, oceanic Wedge-rumped Storm-Petrel.
Size
The Kelp Gull is significantly larger than the Wedge-rumped Storm-Petrel, with a robust build typical of gulls.
Habitat
Kelp Gulls are typically found in coastal regions, whereas Wedge-rumped Storm-Petrels are oceanic birds, often seen far from land.