Northern Fulmar vs Zino's Petrel

In short

The Northern Fulmar and Zino's Petrel are both seabirds, but they differ significantly in structure and plumage. The Northern Fulmar is more robust with a thicker bill, while Zino's Petrel is more slender and has a longer-winged appearance. Plumage differences are notable, with the Northern Fulmar often appearing in light morphs, whereas Zino's Petrel has a more uniform grey tone.

Identification tips

1. Bill Structure: Northern Fulmar has a thicker, more robust bill compared to the slender bill of Zino's Petrel. 2. Flight Pattern: Observe flight; Northern Fulmars glide with stiff wings, Zino's Petrels are more erratic. 3. Plumage: Look for the light morph in Northern Fulmars versus the uniform grey of Zino's Petrel. 4. Habitat: Consider location; Northern Fulmars are more widespread in northern seas, while Zino's Petrels are confined to Madeira. 5. Vocalizations: Listen for calls; Zino's Petrel has a distinctive call at night near breeding sites.

Size

Northern Fulmar is larger and stockier compared to the more slender and smaller Zino's Petrel.

Plumage

Northern Fulmar typically shows a light morph with pale grey and white tones, while Zino's Petrel has a more uniform grey plumage with a darker cap and contrasting white underparts.

Behaviour

Northern Fulmars are often seen gliding close to the water with stiff wingbeats, while Zino's Petrels are more agile and tend to fly higher with more erratic flight patterns.

Habitat

Northern Fulmars are found in colder northern oceans, often near cliffs and open seas, whereas Zino's Petrels are more restricted to the Madeira archipelago, particularly in mountainous regions during breeding.

Voice

Vocalizations differ, with Northern Fulmars being relatively silent at sea but vocal at colonies, while Zino's Petrel has a distinctive, eerie call often heard at night near breeding sites.