Southern Royal Albatross vs Antipodean Albatross

In short

The Southern Royal Albatross and Antipodean Albatross are large seabirds with similar appearances, but can be distinguished by subtle differences in structure and plumage. The Southern Royal Albatross typically has a more robust body and broader wings compared to the Antipodean Albatross.

Identification tips

1. Structure: Look for the broader wings and more robust body of the Southern Royal Albatross. 2. Plumage: Check for the predominantly white body with black upperwings in the Southern Royal Albatross, while the Antipodean may have more brownish tones. 3. Location: Consider the location, as the Southern Royal Albatross is more frequently seen around New Zealand's subantarctic islands.

Size

Both species are large albatrosses, but the Southern Royal Albatross is generally more robust with broader wings.

Plumage

The Southern Royal Albatross has a predominantly white body with black upperwings, while the Antipodean Albatross may show more variable plumage with some brownish tones on the upperwings. Both species have white underparts.

Behaviour

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

Habitat

Both species are pelagic and are often found in the Southern Ocean, but the Southern Royal Albatross is more commonly associated with the waters around New Zealand's subantarctic islands.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a reliable field mark for distinguishing these two species as they are rarely heard at sea.