Northern Fulmar vs Great Shearwater

In short

The Northern Fulmar and Great Shearwater can be distinguished by their structure and plumage. The Northern Fulmar has a stockier build with a thicker neck and shorter wings, while the Great Shearwater is more streamlined with longer wings and a distinctive dark cap and brown belly-patch.

Identification tips

1. Look for the dark cap and brown belly-patch on the Great Shearwater. 2. Note the stockier build and shorter wings of the Northern Fulmar. 3. Observe the wing shape: the Great Shearwater has longer, more pointed wings. 4. Consider the season and location: Great Shearwaters migrate north in the non-breeding season.

Size

The Northern Fulmar is more compact and robust, whereas the Great Shearwater is larger and more elongated.

Plumage

Northern Fulmar is generally uniform in color with light morphs being pale gray and white, while the Great Shearwater has a dark cap, white underparts with a brown belly-patch, and variable brown markings on the underwing.

Behaviour

Both species are pelagic and often seen gliding over the ocean, but the Great Shearwater may be more likely to be seen in larger flocks during migration.

Habitat

Both species are oceanic, but the Great Shearwater is more likely to be found in the southern Atlantic during breeding, moving north during non-breeding season.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a reliable field mark for distinguishing these species at sea.