Short-tailed Albatross vs White-capped Albatross

In short

The Short-tailed Albatross is best distinguished by its large, pink bill with a bluish tip, while the White-capped Albatross has a more slender, pale grey bill. Both species are large seabirds, but their bill color and structure are key differences. Observing these birds in their respective habitats can also aid identification.

Identification tips

1. Look for the large, pink bill with a bluish tip on the Short-tailed Albatross. 2. Note the golden-yellow wash on the head and nape of the Short-tailed Albatross. 3. Observe the white head with a grey cap on the White-capped Albatross. 4. Consider geographic location: Short-tailed in the North Pacific, White-capped in the Southern Ocean.

Size

Both species are large albatrosses, but the Short-tailed Albatross is slightly larger overall.

Plumage

The Short-tailed Albatross has a distinctive golden-yellow wash on its head and nape, contrasting with its white body and dark wings. The White-capped Albatross has a white head with a subtle grey cap and a more uniform grey upperwing.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit similar soaring flight patterns typical of albatrosses, often gliding low over the ocean.

Habitat

Short-tailed Albatrosses are typically found in the North Pacific, often near Japan and the Aleutian Islands, while White-capped Albatrosses are more common in the Southern Ocean around New Zealand and Australia.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a primary distinguishing feature in the field for these species.