Southern Fulmar vs Kermadec Petrel

In short

The Southern Fulmar and Kermadec Petrel can be distinguished by their plumage and behavior. The Southern Fulmar is generally uniform gray and white, while the Kermadec Petrel has a distinctive white flash on the underwing and white shafts on the upper side of the primaries. Behaviorally, the Kermadec Petrel exhibits jaeger-like kleptoparasitism.

Identification tips

• Look for the white flash on the underwing and white shafts on the primaries to identify the Kermadec Petrel.
• Observe behavior: Kermadec Petrels may exhibit kleptoparasitic actions similar to jaegers.
• Southern Fulmars have a more uniform gray and white plumage without the distinctive underwing markings.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of medium-sized petrels.

Plumage

The Southern Fulmar is mostly gray and white with a more uniform appearance. In contrast, the Kermadec Petrel has a white flash on the underwing and white shafts on the upper side of the primaries, which are key distinguishing features.

Behaviour

The Kermadec Petrel is known for its jaeger-like kleptoparasitic behavior, which is not observed in the Southern Fulmar.

Habitat

Both species are pelagic and can be found in open ocean environments, but specific range details are not provided.

Voice

No specific vocalization differences are noted between these species.