Fork-tailed Storm-Petrel Similar Species Comparison
Main SpeciesFork-tailed Storm-Petrel
Medium-sized bluish-gray storm-petrel with a forked tail (fork not always visible) and a steep forehead. Underparts are paler with darker contrasting underwings. Patters on the surface of the water to feed.
© Ken Chamberlain / Macaulay LibraryOregon, August 25, 2018Medium-sized bluish-gray storm-petrel with a forked tail (fork not always visible). Note small bill, darker gray forehead, and dark ear patch.
© Michael Bolte / Macaulay LibraryCalifornia, May 07, 2017Medium-sized bluish-gray storm-petrel with a forked tail (fork not always visible) and a steep forehead. Note dark ear patch and pale upper wing band.
© Alex Lamoreaux / Macaulay LibraryWashington, August 01, 2015© Bryce Robinson / Macaulay LibraryAlaska, September 22, 2016
© Bryce Robinson / Macaulay LibraryAlaska, September 22, 2016
Hovers above the surface of the water while pattering its feet to feed.
© Ken Chamberlain / Macaulay LibraryOregon, August 27, 2016Similar SpeciesAshy Storm-Petrel
Adult/immature
Ashy Storm-Petrels are dark brown overall while Fork-tailed Storm-Petrels are light gray with a dark smudge on the face and a contrasting dark-light pattern on the upperwing.
© Greg Gillson / Macaulay LibraryOregon, May 18, 2014Similar SpeciesLeach's Storm-Petrel
Adult/immature
Leach's Storm-Petrels are darker brown than Fork-tailed Storm-Petrels, with a white rump.
© Luke Seitz / Macaulay LibraryMassachusetts, August 22, 2015Rotate Your Device to Better Compare
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