Sooty Shearwater vs Persian Shearwater

In short

The Sooty Shearwater and Persian Shearwater can be distinguished by their overall size, plumage coloration, and habitat preferences. Sooty Shearwaters are larger and have a uniformly dark plumage, while Persian Shearwaters are smaller with a more contrasting dark upperparts and white underparts.

Identification tips

1. Size and Structure: Note the larger size and bulkier build of the Sooty Shearwater. 2. Plumage: Look for the uniform dark plumage of the Sooty Shearwater versus the contrasting dark and white of the Persian Shearwater. 3. Habitat: Consider the location; Sooty Shearwaters are more likely in temperate regions, while Persian Shearwaters are found in tropical areas.

Size

Sooty Shearwaters are larger and bulkier compared to the smaller and more slender Persian Shearwaters.

Plumage

Sooty Shearwaters have a uniform dark sooty-brown plumage, whereas Persian Shearwaters display a stark contrast between their dark upperparts and white underparts.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit similar flight patterns typical of shearwaters, with long glides and few wingbeats, but the Sooty Shearwater may appear more powerful due to its larger size.

Habitat

Sooty Shearwaters are often found in colder, temperate waters, while Persian Shearwaters prefer warmer, tropical waters.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a reliable field mark for distinguishing these species, as both are generally silent at sea.