Red-tailed Tropicbird vs Bulwer's Petrel

The Red-tailed Tropicbird and Bulwer's Petrel are distinct in both appearance and behavior. The Red-tailed Tropicbird is notable for its long red tail streamers and predominantly white plumage, while Bulwer's Petrel is smaller, with dark plumage and lacks tail streamers. These differences are most apparent when observed in flight over open ocean or near breeding sites.

Look for long red tail streamers on the Red-tailed Tropicbird, which are absent in Bulwer's Petrel. Note the white body with black wing markings in the tropicbird versus the uniform dark plumage of the petrel. Observe behavior: tropicbirds are more likely to be seen alone or in pairs, while petrels are often seen in flocks, especially near colonies.

Red-tailed Tropicbird is larger with a wingspan of about 100-115 cm, whereas Bulwer's Petrel is smaller, with a wingspan around 76-89 cm.

Red-tailed Tropicbird has striking white plumage with black markings on the wings and a long red tail streamer. Bulwer's Petrel is uniformly dark brown to black, lacking any bright tail features.

Red-tailed Tropicbird is often seen performing aerial displays and is more solitary. Bulwer's Petrel is colonial and nocturnal at breeding sites, often seen flying low over the water.

Red-tailed Tropicbird is typically found in tropical oceans and nests on remote islands. Bulwer's Petrel also inhabits tropical and subtropical oceans but nests in rock crevices or cavities on islands.

Red-tailed Tropicbird is generally silent at sea but may produce harsh calls near breeding sites. Bulwer's Petrel is more vocal at night near colonies, emitting a variety of calls.