Southern Giant-Petrel vs Pintado Petrel

In short

The Southern Giant-Petrel and Pintado Petrel are both seabirds of the Southern Ocean, but they differ significantly in size and plumage. The Southern Giant-Petrel is much larger with a robust build, while the Pintado Petrel is smaller and has a distinctive black-and-white checkered pattern.

Identification tips

• Size and build: Southern Giant-Petrel is much larger and bulkier.
• Plumage: Look for the checkered black-and-white pattern of the Pintado Petrel.
• Behavior: Note scavenging behavior near shorelines for Southern Giant-Petrels.
• Habitat: Southern Giant-Petrels are more coastal, Pintado Petrels more pelagic.

Size

The Southern Giant-Petrel is significantly larger and more robust than the Pintado Petrel.

Plumage

Southern Giant-Petrels have two morphs: a dark morph and a less common white morph. In contrast, Pintado Petrels have a striking black-and-white checkered pattern on their upperparts, making them unmistakable.

Behaviour

Southern Giant-Petrels are often seen scavenging near shorelines, feeding on carrion such as seal and penguin carcasses. Pintado Petrels are more pelagic and are often seen in flocks at sea.

Habitat

Both species inhabit the Southern Ocean, but Southern Giant-Petrels are more likely to be seen near coastlines, while Pintado Petrels are typically found further out at sea.