Long-billed Murrelet vs Pigeon Guillemot

In short

The Long-billed Murrelet and Pigeon Guillemot can be distinguished primarily by their bill shape and plumage. The Long-billed Murrelet has a notably longer and slender bill, while the Pigeon Guillemot features a shorter, thicker bill. In terms of plumage, the Pigeon Guillemot is easily recognized by its striking black and white contrast and bright red legs during the breeding season.

Identification tips

1. Bill shape: Look for the longer, slender bill of the Long-billed Murrelet compared to the shorter, thicker bill of the Pigeon Guillemot. 2. Plumage: Note the Pigeon Guillemot's black and white contrast and red legs during breeding. 3. Habitat: Observe the location; Pigeon Guillemots are often near rocky shores, while Long-billed Murrelets are more offshore. 4. Behavior: Watch for feeding habits; Pigeon Guillemots dive to the sea bed near shore.

Size

Both species are similar in size, but the Pigeon Guillemot may appear slightly bulkier.

Plumage

The Long-billed Murrelet has a more uniformly dark plumage with a subtle mottled pattern, while the Pigeon Guillemot displays a stark black and white contrast with a white wing patch and bright red legs during breeding.

Behaviour

Both species dive for food, but the Pigeon Guillemot often feeds closer to shore, diving to the sea bed to probe rocky areas.

Habitat

The Long-billed Murrelet is typically found in offshore waters, while the Pigeon Guillemot is more commonly seen inshore, often near rocky coastlines.

Voice

Vocalizations are not well-documented in the provided notes, but generally, the Pigeon Guillemot is known for its high-pitched whistles.