White-tailed Tropicbird vs Red-tailed Tropicbird

In short

The White-tailed Tropicbird and Red-tailed Tropicbird can be distinguished primarily by their tail feathers: the White-tailed has long, white tail streamers, while the Red-tailed has red ones. Both species have similar body shapes and are pelagic, but their tail colors are the most reliable field marks.

Identification tips

1. Look for the tail color: White-tailed Tropicbird has white tail streamers, while Red-tailed Tropicbird has red tail streamers. 2. Observe the wing markings: Both have black markings, but focus on the tail for reliable ID. 3. Consider location and size variation for Red-tailed Tropicbirds, especially if in the Pacific.

Size

Both species are similar in size, but Red-tailed Tropicbirds can vary significantly in size depending on their location, with smaller birds in the North Pacific and larger ones in the South Pacific.

Plumage

White-tailed Tropicbirds have predominantly white plumage with black markings on the wings, while Red-tailed Tropicbirds also have white plumage but are distinguished by their red tail streamers.

Behaviour

Both species are pelagic and are often seen flying over the ocean, sometimes investigating boats. They are solitary but may gather around food sources.

Habitat

Both species are found over tropical and subtropical seas and are rarely seen near land except during breeding. They nest on remote islands.