Wilson's Storm-Petrel vs Red-breasted Nuthatch

In short

Wilson's Storm-Petrel and Red-breasted Nuthatch are vastly different in appearance and habitat. The storm-petrel is a small, dark seabird often seen skimming ocean waters, while the nuthatch is a small, tree-dwelling bird with a distinctive red breast and a habit of climbing head-first down tree trunks.

Identification tips

1. Location: If you are near the ocean, it's likely a Wilson's Storm-Petrel. In forests, especially coniferous, look for the Red-breasted Nuthatch. 2. Plumage: Look for the white rump on the storm-petrel and the rusty red breast on the nuthatch. 3. Behavior: Observe if the bird is skimming over water or climbing tree trunks. 4. Call: Listen for the nuthatch's nasal call in wooded areas.

Size

Wilson's Storm-Petrel is a small seabird, but still larger than the tiny Red-breasted Nuthatch.

Plumage

Wilson's Storm-Petrel is mostly dark brown to black with a white rump, whereas the Red-breasted Nuthatch has a blue-gray back, a rusty red breast, and a black cap with a white face stripe.

Behaviour

Wilson's Storm-Petrel forages over the ocean, often seen 'dancing' on the water surface. In contrast, the Red-breasted Nuthatch is known for its acrobatic movements on tree trunks, often moving head-down.

Habitat

Wilson's Storm-Petrel is found over open oceans, while the Red-breasted Nuthatch inhabits coniferous forests and occasionally mixed woodlands.

Voice

Wilson's Storm-Petrel is generally silent at sea, whereas the Red-breasted Nuthatch has a distinctive, nasal 'yank-yank' call.