Gull look-alikes

Key differences

Often confused with Lesser Black-backed Gull. Herring Gulls have pink legs and a lighter grey mantle. Adults have a red spot on the lower mandible. Juveniles are complex but generally browner than LBBG juveniles.

Key differences

Distinguished from Herring Gull by darker grey to black mantle, yellow legs, and often a more slender build. The red spot on the bill is typically less prominent than in Herring Gull.

Key differences

The largest gull species. Has a very dark, almost black mantle, pink legs, and a massive bill with a prominent red spot. Much larger and more robust than Herring or Lesser Black-backed Gulls.

Key differences

Smaller than Herring Gull, with yellow legs and a yellow bill featuring a distinct black ring near the tip. Mantle is a medium grey. Common in North America.

Key differences

Similar in size to Ring-billed Gull but with darker grey mantle, greenish-yellow legs, and a yellow bill with a black ring and a red spot. Found primarily in western North America.