Sooty Shearwater vs Short-tailed Shearwater

In short

The Sooty Shearwater and Short-tailed Shearwater are similar in appearance, but the Sooty Shearwater is generally larger with a more uniform dark plumage. The Short-tailed Shearwater has a slightly paler underwing and a more compact body. Observing flight patterns and plumage can help differentiate them.

Identification tips

1. Look for the larger size and more uniform dark plumage of the Sooty Shearwater. 2. Note the slightly paler underwing of the Short-tailed Shearwater. 3. Observe the flight style; Sooty Shearwater may appear more powerful. 4. Consider geographic location and time of year, as ranges overlap but may vary seasonally.

Size

The Sooty Shearwater is larger and bulkier compared to the more compact Short-tailed Shearwater.

Plumage

Sooty Shearwater has a uniform dark brown to sooty plumage, while the Short-tailed Shearwater has a slightly paler underwing and can appear more grayish in certain lights.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit similar foraging and flying behaviors, often seen gliding low over the water. However, the Sooty Shearwater may appear more powerful in flight due to its larger size.

Habitat

Both species are pelagic and often found in similar oceanic environments, though the Sooty Shearwater has a broader range.

Voice

Vocalizations are not typically used to distinguish these species at sea, as both are generally silent when away from breeding colonies.