How to identify the European Herring Gull

To correctly identify the European Herring Gull (Larus argentatus (European Herring Gull) or similar species), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

55-67 cm (22-26 in)

Wingspan

138-150 cm (54-59 in)

Weight

750-1600 g (1.7-3.5 lbs)

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Adults have a pale grey back and upperwings, with black wingtips (primaries) that have white 'mirrors' (spots). The head, neck, underparts, and tail are pure white. Non-breeding adults may show some streaking on the head and neck.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Large, strong, slightly hooked yellow bill with a prominent red spot on the lower mandible (gonys).

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Pale yellow with a red orbital ring (in adults)

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Pinkish-flesh

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Large size, pale grey mantle, black wingtips with white mirrors, yellow bill with red spot, pink legs. The red spot on the bill is a key feature for chicks to peck at, stimulating regurgitation of food by parents.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles are mottled brown and grey, with a dark bill and dark eyes. They undergo several molts, gradually acquiring adult plumage over 3-4 years. First-winter birds are heavily mottled brown, second-winter birds show more grey on the back and a paler head, and third-winter birds are largely grey and white but still retain some dark markings and a darker bill.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   Adults show minimal seasonal plumage changes. Non-breeding adults may have fine grey streaking on the head and nape, which is lost during the breeding season, making the head pure white.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males are generally slightly larger and heavier than females, but plumage is identical.

Key field marks

• Size and Shape. Look for a large, robust gull with a powerful build. It's one of the larger 'white-headed' gulls.
• Mantle Color. Observe the color of the back and upperwings. It should be a medium, pale grey. This distinguishes it from darker-mantled gulls like Lesser or Great Black-backed Gulls.
• Wingtips. Note the black wingtips (primaries) with distinct white 'mirrors' or spots. The extent and shape of these mirrors can be useful, though variable.
• Bill Color and Markings. Identify the strong yellow bill with a prominent red spot on the lower mandible. This red spot is a key field mark for adults.
• Leg Color. Check the leg color, which should be pinkish-flesh. This immediately rules out yellow-legged gulls.
• Eye Color and Orbital Ring. Adults have pale yellow eyes with a red orbital ring, which can be seen at close range.
• Juvenile Plumage. Young birds are heavily mottled brown and grey. Look for the gradual transition to adult plumage over several years, with a dark bill and dark eyes in the first year.
• Vocalizations. Listen for the characteristic loud, 'laughing' or 'long call' ('kyow-kyow-kyow') often given with the head thrown back. This is a very distinctive sound of coastal areas.

Explore the European Herring Gull