Wedge-tailed Shearwater vs Tropical Shearwater

In short

The Wedge-tailed Shearwater and Tropical Shearwater can be distinguished by their tail shape and flight style. The Wedge-tailed has a distinctive long, wedge-shaped tail, while the Tropical has a shorter, more rounded tail. Both species share similar plumage, but their flight patterns and habitat preferences offer clues for identification.

Identification tips

1. Tail Shape: Look for the long, wedge-shaped tail of the Wedge-tailed Shearwater. 2. Flight Style: Observe the flight; Wedge-tailed Shearwaters glide with stiff wingbeats, while Tropical Shearwaters are more agile. 3. Size and Structure: Note the larger size and more robust build of the Wedge-tailed compared to the smaller Tropical. 4. Plumage Details: Check for pale scaly edgings on the back feathers of the Wedge-tailed Shearwater.

Size

Wedge-tailed Shearwater is larger and more robust compared to the smaller and more compact Tropical Shearwater.

Plumage

Both species have similar dark upperparts and lighter underparts, but the Wedge-tailed Shearwater may show pale scaly edgings to back feathers, which are less pronounced in the Tropical Shearwater.

Behaviour

Wedge-tailed Shearwaters exhibit unhurried, buoyant glides and stiff wingbeats, often seen in large flocks. Tropical Shearwaters are more agile, engaging in pursuit-diving and surface-seizing.

Habitat

Wedge-tailed Shearwaters are common in warm tropical waters and can be seen from shore, often in large flocks. Tropical Shearwaters are also found in tropical waters but may be more localized.